SOFTLAB II

Fire Evacuation Simulation

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 Fire Evacuation Simulation
Fire evacuation simulation (also known as egress modeling) refers to the use of computer models and
algorithms to simulate the behavior of individuals during a fire emergency in buildings or other enclosed
spaces.

These simulations are designed to analyze and optimize evacuation strategies, assess the effectiveness of
building layouts, identify potential bottlenecks or hazards, and improve overall safety.

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Key aspects and features of fire evacuation simulation

Modeling Individuals: Evacuation simulations typically involve modeling the behavior of individuals within a
building during an emergency. This includes factors such as movement speed, decision-making processes,
reaction to fire alarms, and interactions with other evacuees.

Building Layout and Features: The simulation takes into account the layout of the building, including the
arrangement of rooms, corridors, staircases, exits and obstacles. It may also consider the presence of fire
protection systems such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and emergency lighting

Fire Dynamics: Fire evacuation simulations often incorporate models of fire dynamics, including the spread of
smoke and flames, temperature gradients, and the generation of toxic gases. This helps to simulate realistic fire
scenarios and their impact on evacuation routes and times.

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Key aspects and features of fire evacuation simulation

Evacuation Strategies: Different evacuation strategies can be simulated and compared to determine their
effectiveness in various scenarios. This may include strategies such as phased evacuation, simultaneous
evacuation, using designated evacuation routes, and providing assistance to individuals with disabilities or
special needs.

Analysis and Optimization: Once a simulation is completed, the results can be analyzed to identify potential
areas for improvement in the building layout, evacuation procedures, or fire safety measures. This may involve
optimizing exit locations, improving signage and wayfinding, or adjusting staffing and training protocols for
emergency responders.

Verification and Validation: It's crucial to validate evacuation simulations against real-world data and
observations to ensure their accuracy and reliability. This may involve comparing simulation results with
historical evacuation incidents or conducting evacuation drills in simulated environments.

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Key aspects and features of fire evacuation simulation

Software Tools: Various software tools and platforms are available for conducting fire evacuation
simulations, ranging from simple modeling programs to advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
simulations. These tools may offer different levels of detail and complexity depending on the specific
requirements of the analysis.

Fire Dynamics Simulation Egress Simulation

Building Layout & features, Fire Dynamics Individual modeling, behavior pattern

Evacuation strategies, analysis & optimization, verification & validation

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Design decisions influenced by
simulation results

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Design decisions influenced by simulation results

Building Layout and Configuration:

1. Placement of Exits: Simulation results may inform decisions regarding the location, number, and
distribution of exits throughout the building to ensure adequate egress capacity and minimize
evacuation distances.

2. Stairwell Design: Simulations can provide insights into the capacity and efficiency of stairwells as
evacuation routes, influencing decisions related to stairwell width, location, signage, and pressurization
systems.

3. Compartmentalization: Simulation results may support decisions regarding the design and
implementation of fire-rated barriers, smoke control systems, and compartmentalization strategies to
prevent the spread of fire and smoke and facilitate safe evacuation routes.

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Design decisions influenced by simulation results

Fire Safety Systems:

1. Detection and Alarm Systems: Simulation results may guide decisions regarding the placement, type,
and sensitivity of fire detection and alarm systems to ensure timely notification of occupants and
emergency responders.

2. Suppression Systems: Simulations can inform decisions regarding the selection and installation of fire
suppression systems, such as sprinklers, fire extinguishers, and automatic fire curtains, to control or
extinguish fires and mitigate their impact on evacuation routes.

3. Smoke Management: Simulation results may influence decisions related to the design and operation of
smoke management systems, including smoke exhaust fans, smoke barriers, and pressurization
systems, to maintain tenable conditions for evacuation.

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Design decisions influenced by simulation results

Evacuation Procedures and Protocols:

1. Phased Evacuation: Simulation results may support decisions regarding the implementation of phased
evacuation strategies to manage occupant flow, prevent overcrowding at exits, and prioritize the
evacuation of high-risk areas or individuals with special needs.

2. Evacuation Routes and Signage: Simulations can inform decisions regarding the design, visibility, and
accessibility of evacuation routes, emergency exits, and wayfinding signage to facilitate safe and
efficient evacuation under different scenarios.

3. Staff Training and Preparedness: Simulation results may highlight the importance of staff training,
communication protocols, and emergency response procedures, influencing decisions related to staff
roles and responsibilities during evacuations and drills.

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Design decisions influenced by simulation results

Emergency Preparedness and Planning:

1. Emergency Response Plans: Simulation results may inform the development or revision of
comprehensive emergency response plans, including evacuation procedures, communication protocols,
assembly area locations, and coordination with emergency services.

2. Training and Drills: Simulations can identify areas for improvement in evacuation training programs and
drills, helping to ensure that occupants and staff are adequately prepared to respond to fire
emergencies and follow established procedures.

3. Continuity Planning: Simulation results may support decisions related to business continuity and
disaster recovery planning, including provisions for alternative evacuation routes, emergency power
systems, and relocation or shelter-in-place protocols.

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Considerations specific to
typology of building

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Considerations specific to typology of building

High-Rise Buildings:

1. Vertical Evacuation: High-rise buildings often have multiple floors, which require special consideration
for vertical evacuation. Simulations should account for the capacity and efficiency of stairwells,
elevators, and other means of vertical transportation.

2. Stairwell Pressurization: In high-rise buildings, stairwell pressurization systems may be installed to

prevent the spread of smoke and maintain tenable conditions for evacuation. Simulations should model
the effects of these systems on evacuation dynamics.

3. Occupant Density: High-rise buildings typically have high occupant densities, which can impact
evacuation times and congestion levels. Simulations should account for the distribution of occupants
throughout the building and their interactions during evacuation.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities:

1. Patient Mobility: Hospitals may have patients with limited mobility or medical equipment that
complicates evacuation procedures. Simulations should consider the need for specialized equipment,
staff assistance, and dedicated evacuation routes for patients with disabilities or medical conditions.

2. Evacuation Prioritization: Healthcare facilities may need to prioritize the evacuation of certain patient
areas, such as intensive care units or operating rooms, based on the severity of the patients' conditions.
Simulations should account for these priorities and their impact on overall evacuation strategies.

3. Staff Training: Healthcare facilities rely on trained staff to assist with patient evacuation and emergency
response. Simulations should consider the availability and training level of staff members and their
ability to coordinate evacuation efforts effectively.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Stadiums and Arenas:

1. Crowd Dynamics: Stadiums and arenas often host large crowds during events, which can present
unique challenges for evacuation simulations. Simulations should account for crowd dynamics,
including crowd density, movement patterns, and potential bottlenecks at exits and entry points.

2. Emergency Communication: Effective communication is essential during stadium evacuations to alert

attendees and provide instructions. Simulations should consider the effectiveness of communication
systems, including public address announcements, digital signage, and mobile notifications.

3. Evacuation Phasing: Large venues may implement phased evacuation strategies to manage the flow of
attendees and prevent overcrowding at exits. Simulations should model the timing and coordination of
evacuation phases to optimize evacuation efficiency.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Residential Buildings:

1. Occupant Familiarity: Residents of residential buildings are typically familiar with the layout and
evacuation procedures of their own building. Simulations should account for this familiarity and consider
how it may influence evacuation behavior.

2. Access and Egress: Residential buildings may have limited access points and egress routes,
particularly in multi-unit apartment complexes or condominiums. Simulations should assess the capacity
and efficiency of these routes under different evacuation scenarios.

3. Fire Protection Systems: Residential buildings may be equipped with fire alarms, smoke detectors, and
sprinkler systems to enhance occupant safety. Simulations should model the activation and
effectiveness of these systems in mitigating the spread of fire and facilitating evacuation.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Office Buildings:

1. Occupant Distribution: Office buildings may have open floor plans, cubicles, and private offices, which
can affect the distribution and movement of occupants during evacuation. Simulations should account
for these factors and assess the impact on evacuation routes and congestion levels.

2. Emergency Response Teams: Office buildings often have designated emergency response teams
responsible for coordinating evacuations and assisting with building occupants. Simulations should
consider the role and effectiveness of these teams in managing evacuation procedures.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Shopping Malls:

1. Complex Layouts: Shopping malls typically have complex layouts with multiple levels, interconnected
corridors, and numerous retail stores. Simulations should model the layout of the mall accurately and
assess the effectiveness of evacuation routes, including access to exits and emergency exits located
within stores.

2. Public Awareness: Shopping malls may host large numbers of visitors, including families with children
and individuals with disabilities. Simulations should consider the level of public awareness regarding
evacuation procedures and assess the effectiveness of signage and communication systems in guiding
occupants to safety.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Hotels and Hospitality Buildings:

1. Guest Awareness: Hotels host transient guests who may be less familiar with the layout and evacuation
procedures of the building. Simulations should assess the effectiveness of signage, guest room
instructions, and staff assistance in guiding guests to safety.

2. Evacuation Routes: Hotels may have multiple exits, including primary exits, secondary exits, and exits
located in stairwells or emergency exits. Simulations should evaluate the accessibility and capacity of
these routes under different evacuation scenarios, including scenarios involving guests with luggage or
disabilities.

3. Staff Training: Hotel staff play a crucial role in assisting guests during evacuations and coordinating with
emergency responders. Simulations should consider the training level of staff members and their ability
to effectively manage evacuation procedures.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Schools and Educational Facilities:

1. Age and Mobility: Schools may have occupants of varying ages, including young children, adolescents, and
adults, each with different levels of mobility and ability to follow evacuation instructions. Simulations should
account for these differences and consider age-appropriate evacuation strategies.

2. Classroom Layouts: Classrooms in educational facilities often have fixed seating arrangements and limited
egress points, which can impact evacuation efficiency. Simulations should assess the capacity of classrooms
and corridors to accommodate evacuating students and staff.

3. Emergency Drills: Schools typically conduct regular fire drills to familiarize occupants with evacuation
procedures. Simulations should consider the frequency and effectiveness of these drills in preparing
occupants for emergency situations.

4. Special Needs Students: Schools may have students with disabilities or special needs that require additional
assistance during evacuations. Simulations should consider the accessibility of evacuation routes, the
availability of specialized equipment, and the training level of staff members in providing support to these
students.

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Considerations specific to typology of building

Prisons:

1. Inmate Population: Prisons house inmates with varying levels of mobility and security classifications,
which can impact evacuation procedures. Simulations should consider the distribution of inmates
across different housing units, the availability of staff assistance, and protocols for managing inmate
movement during evacuations.

2. Secure Facilities: Prisons are designed with security features such as perimeter fences, controlled
access points, and secure doors and gates. Evacuation simulations should assess the impact of these
features on evacuation routes and the ability of staff to quickly and safely evacuate inmates.

3. Emergency Response Teams: Prisons typically have trained emergency response teams responsible
for managing security incidents and coordinating evacuations. Simulations should consider the role and
effectiveness of these teams in responding to fire emergencies and maintaining order during
evacuations.

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Simulation Tools

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Geometry:
Floor Plans: CAD drawings, architectural floor plans, or other representations of the building geometry.
3D Models: Three-dimensional representations of building components, compartments, obstacles, ventilation systems, and other
features.
Import Formats: PyroSim supports various file formats for importing geometry, including DXF, DWG, IFC, OBJ, STL, and VRML.

Materials:
Material Properties: Properties of building materials, such as thermal conductivity, density, specific heat, emissivity, and flame spread
characteristics.
Surface Properties: Surface properties, including emissivity, absorption, and reflection coefficients, affecting heat transfer and
radiation exchange.

Fire Scenarios:
Fire Sources: Specification of fire scenarios, including the location, size, intensity, duration, and growth rate of fire sources within the
simulation domain.
Ignition Sources: Identification of potential ignition sources, such as open flames, electrical equipment, combustible materials, or
external fire exposures.
Fire Growth: Description of fire growth and development over time, considering factors such as fuel availability, ventilation conditions,
and fire suppression measures.

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Boundary Conditions:
Boundary Conditions: Specification of boundary conditions, including ambient temperature, pressure, humidity, and wind conditions
surrounding the building.
Ventilation Systems: Description of ventilation systems, airflow rates, inlet and outlet locations, dampers, fans, and other components
affecting airflow within the building.

Simulation Parameters:
Time Steps: Definition of time steps for advancing the simulation, controlling the temporal resolution of the simulation results.
Mesh Resolution: Specification of mesh resolution and refinement levels for discretizing the computational domain, balancing
accuracy and computational efficiency.
Numerical Settings: Configuration of numerical settings, such as solver algorithms, convergence criteria, and time integration
schemes.

Output Settings:
Output Variables: Selection of output variables to be recorded during the simulation, including temperature, pressure, velocity, species
concentrations, and heat fluxes.
Output Locations: Specification of output locations and sensors for monitoring simulation results, such as points, surfaces, volumes,
or custom-defined regions of interest.

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© SMEF'S BRICK GROUP OF INSTITUTES, Pune
© SMEF'S BRICK GROUP OF INSTITUTES, Pune
© SMEF'S BRICK GROUP OF INSTITUTES, Pune
Building Geometry:
Floor Plans: CAD drawings, architectural floor plans, or other representations of the building layout, including walls, doors, corridors,
stairs, and other structural elements.
3D Models: Three-dimensional representations of the building geometry, which may include multiple floors, rooms, and
compartments.

Occupant Characteristics:
Occupant Profiles: Description of the characteristics and behavior of building occupants, including demographic data (such as age,
gender, and mobility), movement preferences, and decision-making criteria.
Population Distribution: Specification of the number and distribution of occupants within the building, including their initial locations
and destinations during evacuation scenarios.

Evacuation Scenarios:
Scenario Definition: Identification and description of specific emergency scenarios to be simulated, such as fires, earthquakes, or
other hazards.
Event Timing: Timing and duration of the emergency event, including the onset of the emergency, the activation of fire alarms, and the
initiation of evacuation procedures.
Exit Locations: Specification of exit locations, including doors, stairwells, ramps, or other egress points available for occupants to
evacuate the building.
Exit Capacities: Capacity and characteristics of exit pathways, including the number of exits, their width, flow rates, and any
restrictions or obstacles that may affect evacuation flow.

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Obstacles and Constraints:
Obstacle Placement: Identification of obstacles or barriers within the building that may impede occupant movement or affect
evacuation routes, such as furniture, partitions, equipment, or debris.
Accessibility Constraints: Consideration of accessibility requirements for occupants with disabilities or mobility impairments, including
the availability of ramps, elevators, and designated evacuation routes.

Simulation Parameters:
Simulation Settings: Specification of simulation parameters, such as the duration of the simulation, time steps, output intervals, and
convergence criteria.
Analysis Options: Selection of analysis options and metrics to be evaluated during the simulation, such as evacuation times, exit
utilization, crowd density, and occupant safety.

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