Fire Science Show

Episode 200! And for this special episode,  I've travelled to London to interview Prof. Guillermo Rein and Dr Matt Bonner on a piece of research carried out at Imperial College London, with the experiments performed in our laboratory at the ITB.In this episode, we discuss the concept of flammability of the building facades and how this flammability is assessed with different testing methods available in the world. You could argue that every country has their own method, and in some cases, they use those methods even with varying criteria of acceptance. Even though the methods are as different as they can be, they all claim they test for fire safety of the external façade and are used as the basis for local regulatory regimes. Knowing that so many methods exist, we approached this with a question: Will they agree on ranking different facades? Will they show us the same results, or will each show us something else? And this question is inspired by Prof. Howard Emmons, who in 1968 went into a similar endeavour with building materials. Back then, Emmons said:“Such profound disagreement between serious attempts to measure combustibility points out better than any argument that we really don't know what we are talking about when we say, ‘this is more combustible than that'; ‘this is a more safe building material than that'”.In this podcast episode, we discuss a series of 25 experiments: testing five facades, two ETICS and three rainscreen facades with a varying degree of use of combustible materials. All the material combinations were built by us in the same way, and then assessed using five test standards: The Polish method PN-B-02867, The international screening method ISO 13785-1 (smaller corner configuration), The German method DIN 4102-20, The American method NFPA 285, also used globallyand the British BS 8414, also highly influential over the world and the basis for the new harmonised EU approach.We go into the background and rationale of the experiments, an overview of the testing methods as well as into qualitative and quantitative findings of the study.Once the paper is published, I will update the shownotes with a link here :)For now, you may also want to revisit previous episodes of Fire Science Show discussing the fire safety of facades – It all started with episode 4 with Matt Bonner: https://www.firescienceshow.com/004-facade-fires-and-ai-with-matt-bonner/An overview of current Issues with Eleni Asimakopoulou: https://www.firescienceshow.com/124-advancements-in-fire-safety-of-facades-with-eleni-asimakopoulou/And some interesting facts about SBI method with Rudolf van Mierlo (and their development of façade testing method): https://www.firescienceshow.com/140-development-and-implementation-of-the-sbi-test-with-rudolf-van-mierlo/This research was funded by The Berkeley Group. The experimental part was performed at the Building Research Institute ITB, with a group of tests with the Polish method performed as part of our statutory research NZP-130.Thank you for being with the Fire Science Show for 200 episodes! Huge shoutout to the OFR for enabling this project and allowing me to share insights like this with all of you in an open-access repository!!!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

We know a whole lot more about mass timber in fire than we did a few years ago (even when I've just started the podcast 199 episodes back …). But is this knowledge widely used in engineering practice? Is it used in the same way by different stakeholders? Definitely not.This is why to move timber into something we would consider “new normal”, we need more than research. We need a consensus on how to apply the outcomes of our research in practice. And this is this podcast episode.Built by Nature, with a group of investors, property owners, and managers, funded a grant led by Elliot Wood to write a “consensus” guideline on using mass timber in office buildings. A large part of the book covers fire, which we also cover in this podcast episode. I've invited prof Danny Hopkin and Luis Gonzalez Avila from OFR to walk me through the story of the guidebook, its contents of it and we also jump deep into the design philosophy of the book.https://builtbn.org/knowledge/resources/commercial-timber-guidebook/In this podcast episode, we try to stay away from explaining how timber burns (sorry!). But if you want to know more about physics, the Fire Science Show has you covered. Check out the timber section of the podcast! Look here: https://www.firescienceshow.com/categories/timber/----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

The devastating impact of waste and recycling industry fires costs approximately $2.5 billion annually in the US and Canada alone, with lithium-ion batteries causing roughly 50% of these incidents. In this episode with Ryan Fogelman from Fire Rover, we discuss:• Understanding the scale of waste facility fires and why traditional fire protection methods often fail in these environments• How lithium-ion batteries have created a "hockey stick" rise in fire incidents since 2015• The "vape effect" - how 1.2 billion single-use vapes with no proper disposal options are contributing to the fire crisis • Why remote monitoring and response systems can detect and fight fires faster than traditional sprinkler systems• The importance of early intervention - FireRover's systems respond in seconds rather than minutes, and targeted suppression uses 88% less water than traditional methods while providing more effective control, reducing the contaminated water spill• Why waste and recycling operators are victims of consumer disposal habits and regulatory gaps• The need for more convenient battery drop-off locations to prevent improper disposal• How innovative fire solutions are changing the approach from "water, water, water" to targeted remote responseVisit firerover.com to learn more about remote fire suppression solutions for waste facilities or contact Ryan Fogelman on lnkd for a free PDF copy of the latest "Waste & Recycling Facility Fire Annual Report"Thank you to the SFPE for recognizing me with the 2025 SFPE Fire Safety Engineering Award! Huge thanks to YOU for being a part of this, and big thanks to the OFR for supporting me over the years.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

When wildfire threatens neighbourhoods with closely-spaced homes, what determines whether flames leap from one structure to the next? The FSRI research team - Rebekah Schrader, Joseph Willi, Daniel Gorham and Gavin Horn - joins us to unveil their experimental series that methodically dissects the pathways through which fire spreads between buildings.The team walks us through their massive outdoor experimental setup, where they created controlled compartment fires and measured their impact on adjacent walls and windows at various separation distances. They discovered that even non-combustible exterior cladding like fiber cement board won't necessarily protect a home when the underlying sheathing is combustible—especially at close distances where heat fluxes reach a staggering 75-125 kW/m².Windows emerge as perhaps the most vulnerable component, with their research revealing dramatic differences in performance between glass types. Double-pane tempered glass significantly outperforms plain glass configurations, but the surprising finding was how much window frame materials matter. In one experiment, vinyl frames completely failed while the glass was still intact, causing entire window assemblies to drop from the wall.Another aspect of their research are the measurements of the heat transfer through intact windows. Using specialized measurements, they found that significant radiant heat penetrates even unbroken windows, potentially igniting curtains or furniture inside before the window itself fails. Low-emissivity coatings proved remarkably effective at reducing this heat transfer.This research offers crucial insights for homeowners, fire safety engineers, and policymakers working to create more resilient communities. The findings extend beyond wildland fire applications, providing valuable data for urban fire safety engineering across multiple contexts.Find the research papers at:https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fam.3278https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10694-024-01685-8https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10694-024-01656-zAnd additional resources at:https://fsri.org/research-update/journal-article-reports-heat-transfer-through-different-window-constructionshttps://fsri.org/research-update/journal-article-investigates-role-residential-siding-materials-spread-exterior----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In this podcast episode, we host Rebekah Schrader, Joseph Willi, Daniel Gorham and Gavin Horn, all from the FSRI, to cover their recent experimental research on fire spread through external walls. This is part 1 of the interview - the background, rationale and context. In part 2, we cover the experiments themselves, findings and actionable guidance from the experiments.This research is conducted within the context of structure-to-structure fire spread, potentially in urban conflagration scenarios. The subject is most relevant, as when wildfires meet urban areas, they transform into something far more destructive – "wildfire-initiated urban conflagrations." These events devastate entire communities as fire spreads rapidly from structure to structure, overwhelming firefighting resources and leaving widespread destruction in their wake.The Fire Safety Research Institute has embarked on a comprehensive research initiative examining exactly how these conflagrations develop and spread. What started as a response to their advisory board's call to action in 2018 has evolved into a groundbreaking exploration of the complex interactions between wildland fires and the built environment.We break down the three primary mechanisms of fire spread – radiant heat, direct flame contact, and firebrands – while highlighting specific vulnerabilities in modern construction, particularly windows and cladding systems.What makes this research particularly valuable is how it bridges traditionally separate disciplines: wildfire science and structural fire engineering. The team explains how they've translated complex wildfire scenarios into controlled laboratory experiments that yield actionable data for improving building codes and community design.Whether you're a fire safety professional, community planner, or homeowner in a wildfire-prone region, this conversation offers crucial insights into how we can create more resilient communities in the face of this growing threat.In the next episode, we will cover in depth the details of three experiments mentioned today.Find the research papers at:https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fam.3278https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10694-024-01685-8https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10694-024-01656-zAnd additional resources at:https://fsri.org/research-update/journal-article-reports-heat-transfer-through-different-window-constructionshttps://fsri.org/research-update/journal-article-investigates-role-residential-siding-materials-spread-exterior----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

The UK's Building Safety Act requires high-risk buildings to maintain comprehensive fire safety cases - living documents that identify hazards, mitigate risks, and establish clear accountability for building safety. This is the subject of my discussion with Chris Mayfield and Martyn Ramsden from OFR.• Safety cases differ from fire strategies by being owned by the building's accountable person rather than consultants• The Principal Accountable Person must take responsibility for preventing fire spread and structural failure• Safety cases must document hazards, protective measures, and management systems• The approach draws from lessons in high-hazard industries following disasters like Piper Alpha• Safety cases should follow a logical structure: building description, safety management, hazard identification, safety measures, emergency procedures, and conclusions• Bow tie diagrams help visualise threats, consequences, and barriers in a way all stakeholders can understand• For new buildings, safety cases integrate with the "gateway" approval system• Existing high-risk buildings (over 18m/7 stories with 2+ dwellings) must have safety cases ready for inspection• When properly implemented, safety cases create cultural change by helping everyone understand their role in safety----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Professor Xinyan Huang from Hong Kong Polytechnic University shares his expertise on battery fires and the various experimental methods researchers use to trigger thermal runaway events under controlled conditions.• Terminology matters - "thermal runaway" more accurately describes battery failure than "ignition" as the critical reactions occur inside the cell• Nail penetration testing is widely used but contains surprising complexities, including nail material, penetration depth, velocity and battery orientation • Mechanical abuse tests (crushing, dropping, squeezing) simulate real-world accidents but often lack repeatability• Thermal abuse via heating typically targets 200°C surface temperature using methods including flame exposure, electrical coils, and laser heating• Electrical abuse through overcharging (150-200% SOC) significantly increases risk, while poor-quality charging equipment creates additional hazards• State of charge plays a crucial role in how batteries respond to abuse tests• New research aims to bridge the gap between micro-scale material testing and cell-level testingProfessor Huang is organising the 4th International Symposium on Lithium Battery Fire Safety (ISLBFS 2025) in Hong Kong from October 30th to November 2nd - the largest battery fire safety conference in the world.I intended to link Xinyan's papers on batteries, but there is 19 of them!?! Let me link the most recent ones:Dynamic thermal runaway evolution of Li-ion battery during nail penetrationModeling liquid immersion-cooling battery thermal management system and optimization via machine learningLaser-induced thermal runaway dynamics of cylindrical lithium-ion batteryEffect of thermal impact on the onset and propagation of thermal runaway over cylindrical Li-ion batteriesA Review of Battery Fires in Electric VehiclesAlleviation on battery thermal runaway propagation: Effects of oxygen level and dilution gasCover image source: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.est.2024.111337----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Welcome to another Fire Fundamentals. This time the episode is focused on various extinguishing technologies. Invited guest - Bogdan Racięga, Director at Baltic Fire Laboratory and expert in fire protection systems breaks down the fundamental differences between suppression and extinction technologies and how they work in real-world applications.Clear distinction between suppression systems (control fires while meeting temperature criteria) and extinction systems (must completely extinguish fires)Types of fire protection systems including water-based (sprinkler, water mist), foam, aerosol, and gas systems (no fire-balls :))Technical parameters affecting performance: K-value, nominal working pressure, RTI, discharge areasAreas of application, eg. why water mist systems can often be preferred for high-rise buildings due to smaller piping and reduced weightHow temperature ratings and RTI affect sprinkler activation timing and performanceChallenges with concealed sprinklers including maintenance issues and delayed activationTesting procedures for water distribution patterns and certification processesDifferences between high-pressure and low-pressure systems in various applicationsnuances related to the role of an accredited laboratory (ISO 17025) and a certification body (ISO 17065)----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Jet-fan systems effectively control smoke in car parks by creating directed airflows that transport smoke from one point to another, similar to how longitudinal ventilation works in tunnels. These systems offer cost-effectiveness and simplicity by eliminating ductwork while providing powerful smoke management capabilities when properly designed and understood.• Jet Fans create momentum transfer through air entrainment rather than directly moving smoke• Two distinct operational modes exist: smoke clearance (reducing thermal stress) and smoke control (maintaining clear firefighter access)• Systems require careful balancing of extraction capacity with Jet Fan thrust force• Optimal design typically requires CFD modeling followed by hot smoke testing for verification• Jet Fan activation timing presents challenges for evacuation - usually delayed until occupants exit• Systems excel in tunnel-like geometries but struggle with complex layouts (the "Tetris rule")• Particularly effective against heavier-than-air gases like LPG or EV battery fire emissions• European standards now available through EN 12101 family for design guidanceIf you need design assistance with Jet Fan systems for your projects, email me directly at w.wegrzynski@itb.pl. Further reading:- Jet-Fan Systems in Car Parks Design Methods: an Overview and Assessment of Performance- Our in-depth multiparametric study on car park ventilation- A. Król and M. Król, Study on numerical modeling of jet fans- Thunderhead's guide to modelling jet-fans in FDSFire Science Show has been named the top podcast in Fire Protection and Safety by Feedspot. Check the list below, and you will also discover a lot more podcasts in our space!https://podcast.feedspot.com/fire_protection_and_safety_podcasts/Thank you for your continuous support, and to the OFR for making it possible to create this content!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

This episode explores the invaluable contributions of community participation in fire safety technical committees. Joining committees is not just about sharing expertise; it's a journey that transforms careers and fosters growth. Our guests, Birgitte Messerschmidt and Kees Both, reveal how their experiences in various committees, including the NFPA, ISO, ASTM and CEN, have shaped their professional paths. As we dive deeper into the intricacies of committee politics, our guests candidly share the challenges and rewards of engaging in this important work. They emphasize how participating in committees enhances one's career and contributes to the greater good by improving fire safety standards. This is an essential discussion for any engineer, especially those starting their careers, as they navigate the complexities of working with diverse stakeholders.If you just felt inspired to join a committee, please look here:https://www.sfpe.org/membership-communities/standingcommitteeshttps://www.nfpa.org/for-professionals/codes-and-standards/standards-development/technical-committees/committees-seeking-membershttps://www.cencenelec.eu/get-involved/small-and-medium-enterprises-smes/tools-for-smes/getting-involved/Or just shoot us an email, or reach out at LinkedIn. We will help you out!Fire Science Show has been named the top podcast in Fire Protection and Safety by Feedspot. Check the list below, and you will also discover a lot more podcasts in our space!https://podcast.feedspot.com/fire_protection_and_safety_podcasts/Thank you for your continuous support, and to the OFR for making it possible to create this content!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

With the emergence of electric vehicles, fire safety and dynamics have entered a new domain, raising crucial questions about existing protocols, design fires and data gaps. Today, our Wojciech Wegrzyński welcomes Zahir, Associate Prof. at University Putra Malaysia, to discuss the findings from their latest papers, compare methodologies, and highlight the differences between traditional combustion engines and electric vehicles. The conversation covers various topics, from the nuances of fire dynamics to the importance of context in risk assessment. Zahir shares his extensive experience studying vehicle fires, including the evolution of electric vehicle dynamics that users should never ignore. With thought-provoking insights, this episode emphasises the increasing need for robust, comprehensive data regarding car fires and the unique challenges posed by electric vehicles. Join us in this engaging exploration of fire safety science, and don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!Papers! PAPERS:Miechówka & Węgrzyński: Systematic Literature Review on Passenger Car Fire Experiments for Car Park Safety DesignZahir & César Martín-Gómez: Evaluating Fire Severity in Electric Vehicles and Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles: A Statistical Approach to Heat Release RatesPodcast episode 135 - Contemplating a car park design fire(and the paper by J. Hodges from last year is here)---Badania przedstawione w odcinku podcastu omawiane przez dr Wojciecha Węgrzyńskiego przeprowadzono w projekcie realizowanym an podstawie umowy UMO-2020/37/B/ST8/03839 do projektu badawczego nr 2020/37/B/ST8/03839 pt. Skutki oddziaływania wiatru na pożary budynków w wieloparametrycznej ocenie ryzyka z wykorzystaniem metod numerycznych.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

This episode emphasises the value of focusing on simple things in fire safety engineering, something we somehow miss when we go too deep into the technical details of our projects. I've looked at eight different aspects of fire safety - inspired by the CPR requirements, and I've added resiliency, redundancy and suppression to them. By promoting straightforward guidelines like evaluating material combustibility, ensuring effective egress routes, and engaging with rescue services, architects and engineers can significantly enhance building safety practices. In this episode, we talk about:• Simple methods yield effective fire safety solutions • Importance of adhering to foundational fire safety principles • CPR's five essential requirements for construction safety • Load-bearing capacity and material combustibility considerations • Strategies for minimising fire spread between structures • Importance of clear egress pathways for building occupants • Opportunities for enhancing rescue team safety via communication • Emphasis on redundancy and resiliency in fire safety systems Each foundational principle allows fire safety practitioners to implement effective strategies that can lead to safer buildings and improved occupant outcomes.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In this episode of Fire Fundamentals, together with Dr Sara McAllister, we dwell on how stuff burns... And it is far from an easy question. While the general theme of the episodes is porous fuels, we discuss them from different angles, highlighting the similarities and differences between foamed and permeable materials.In this episode, we cover:role of permeability, entrainment and forced flows through porous fuel beds;differences in physical properties between porous materials and their bulk forms;ignition (flaming and smouldering) of porous fuels;natural and artificial fuels, open and closed cell fuels;hazards specific to porous fuels in wildfires and in building fires;And also a bit of discussion on future research of Dr McAllister along with the need for canonical tests to characterize their flammabaility.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Can a tiny amount of bio-protective coating completely change the fire behaviour of mass timber logs? If you asked me that some time ago, I would say it would probably be neutral.Can a 0.5 x 0.5 m free-standing log of timber smoulder through without any external exposure to fire? If you asked me that some time ago, I would say no, and base that on observations of dozens of logs like this.Yet, in Australia they've burned. And the hypothesis was that it has something to do with the preservative treatment.My guest today, Wenxuan Wu from The University of Queensland was tasked with researching this problem and showed us the workshop used for this. In this podcast episode, we dive deep into measurements carried out in fire laboratories on the material scale and how use of different methods gradually increases our understanding of the problem. Their pursuit also opened new questsions - for example, why if timber would be subject to a very strong heat flux, the smouldering would not work anymore? This was also answered in the discussion.If you would like to learn more about Wenxuan's research, please refer to the published papers: Experimental study on the factors affecting smouldering behaviour of CCA-treated woodDeactivation of chromated copper arsenate as a catalyst in smouldering of woodAlso, this talk summarises the best poster at ITB-FRISSBE Summer School. What an event that was. Once again, we would like to thank our sponsors for that!https://www.itb.pl/2024-summer-school/----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

If we truly want to account for the population at a disadvantage in evacuation, there is only this much we can do with the current approach... Pre-evacuation time distributions, walking speeds, and so on only tell us a part of the story - the story of your average person within an average population, with an average walking speed and average response. While these models are undoubtedly useful in engineering, there is perhaps a better way.My friend and guest Enrico Ronchi is trying to find this way through his new ERC Consolidator grant, "Egressibility: a paradigm shift in evacuation research". In this grant, instead of following the main path, he is focusing on stuff we do not know - how to characterise disabilities and understand them better (also through the lens of health and medicine), how to quantify the disadvantages at large, and how to solve potential issues for those who those at the largest risk.In this episode, you will learn about Enrico's ideas and the edge of the knowledge we have today. Some key points covered are:• Insights on paradigm shifts in evacuation science• Introduction of the concept of "egressibility"• Importance of understanding functional limitations in emergencies• Shift from agent-based models to inclusive data-driven models• Use of technology, like VR, for immersive research experiences• Need for changes in regulations for better evacuation safetyYou may also like to read the paper by Guylène Proulx, which introduced egressibility as a concept - available here.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In the aftermath of the LA Pacific Palisades Fire, I've decided that instead of inviting one expert to discuss the event, I will give a voice back to those who already participated in the Fire Science Show and explained this fire (months and years before it happened).In this episode, we recap Wildland-Urban Interface fires, with a focus on the "urban" part. We cover conditions in which such fires may happen and factors that contribute. We discuss the role of community preparedness and pathways in how those fires "attack" individual households. We talk a lot about embers and some ideas on how to mitigate them. Finally, we discuss the evacuation from WUI fires.Some politics, a lot of science, decent amount of answers to most urgent questions. I hope you will enjoy!Episodes and speakers featured in this podcast:069 - Challenging fires at the wildland-urban interface (WUI) with Michael Gollner117 - Global wildfire emergency and the key role of FSEs with Albert Simeoni156 - Trigger Boundaries with Harry Mitchell and Nick Kalogeropoulos159 - The WUI Problem with Michele Steinberg and Birgitte Messerschmidt161 - Community evacuation with Enrico Ronchi and Max KinatederYou can always find current episodes on wildfires at https://www.firescienceshow.com/category/wildfires-wui-and-wind/The history of Japanese urban fires is covered in the paper Large Urban Fires in Japan: History and Management by Yoshioka H. et al. Cover image credit: By Toastt21 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=157682430From the Wikipedia summary of the LA Palisades Fire at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palisades_Fire----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

This episode delves into the financial aspects of fire safety in building design, highlighting the balance between cost and effectiveness. My guests - prof. Thomas Gernay and Chenzi Ma from Johns Hopkins University share insights from their NIST-sponsored research project on cost-benefit analysis and loss estimation for structural fire safety. In the discussion, we explore the differences between prescriptive and performance-based approaches, discussing insights from a comprehensive analysis of over 130 structures and how to better allocate resources for passive fire protection measures.In this episode, we cover:• Understanding fire safety costs in construction • Insights on prescriptive vs. performance-based design • The importance of maintenance and lifecycle cost assessments • Analyzing fragility functions for predicting fire damage • Cost dynamics across different building occupancy types • Future developments for implementing this analytical framework in practicePlease find here useful links about the project:Paper 1 on the costs: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0143974X24000671?Paper 2 on the numerical model of the NIST tests on composite floors: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037971122400095XPaper 3 on the fragility curves (freshly accepted): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0951832025000237Github: https://github.com/Chenzhi-Ma/web_v2----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

History repeats itself. A new thing is invented. We learn about it, understand it, and apply measures to capture its behaviour and regulate it. And then another new thing is invented. The measures we used start failing us, and the cycle repeats all over again.It is not a story of fire safety; it is a story of humanity. Similar cycles can be observed in all aspects of technology. One could call them Innovation Blind Spots after Prof. Rein; in science, you could call them paradigm shifts after Prof. Kuhn. Regardless, these cycles are the frame we work in, and we need to learn to handle them.In fire safety, they are often a cause of major disasters. In this podcast episode, I once again interview prof. Vincent Brannigan. Vincent has spent a large part of his career studying the limiting factors of innovation in fire science and its regulation.This podcast is framed after a lecture Vincent delivered 15 years ago, which can be accessed here: https://www.fireseat.eng.ed.ac.uk/sites/fireseat.eng.ed.ac.uk/files/images/02-Brannigan.pdfIt is an engaging read, I recommend going through it after the podcast episode!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Fire is a highly contextualized problem; therefore, there is no such thing as an unbiased or "objective" fire experiment. It is a thing that many researchers would understand but is very rarely pointed out. Where it is not a problem for fire science (more like a 'feature'), it may become one when the results of scientific experiments are directly applied to real-world engineering cases.In this episode, I cover biases in research, from general ones to highly specific fire safety engineering biases. The list is long, we cover:selection biasconfirmation biasmeasurement/instrumentation biaspublication biasobserver biassampling/data analysis biasconflicts of interestsWe also discuss the contextual nature of fire and fire science related to architecture, fuel, ignition, and environmental conditions. We cover experimental design and measurement techniques. While showcasing all those possible sources of uncertainty and error, it is important to highlight that the science is generally very reliable—you just need to know how to use it.This is the final episode of 2024, so thank you very much for being here with the Fire Science Show and see you back on the Jan 8th 2025!!! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

I just drove 500 km to have a conversation with Professor Vincent Brannigan from the University of Maryland, a very unique expert who combines law with fire engineering. In this discussion, we go into the complexities of building codes and fire safety, comparing traditional design methods (prescriptive) with performance-based designs (and all the stuff in between them). Through anecdotes and historical fire incidents, we highlight the impact of these systems on societal safety, economic development, and international trade. Vincent's unique background in both law and technology provides a rich perspective on how fire safety regulations have evolved to meet contemporary challenges.In the episode, we explore the ongoing shift from politically validated regulations to those grounded in technical knowledge. This transition parallels developments in fields like medicine, necessitating a higher level of precision and expertise in ensuring public safety. We also tackle the thorny issue of global standardization, examining how experiential knowledge and political influences shape fire safety laws worldwide.Finally, the episode dives deep into the challenges of balancing innovation and compliance in building safety. With examples from the world of hotels, airports and tall buildings, we discuss the role of engineers and regulators in navigating complex safety landscapes. Historical case studies, like the Triangle Shirtwaist fire, serve as poignant reminders of the stakes involved. Listen in for a thought-provoking exploration of risk analysis, regulatory negotiations, and the constant evolution of fire safety standards as we seek to protect lives and foster innovation.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In this episode of fire science fundamentals, we cover the pressurisation systems. These are smoke control solutions used to prevent smoke from accessing protected spaces, by creating an overpressure in those spaces. Although the idea is very simple, its execution is far from that. Pressurization systems need to work in two distinct states – when all doors to the protected space are closed (over pressurization state), and when some openings are open (flow-path state). In this episode, we cover:·         What are pressurization systems and why do we use them in buildings;·         Static and dynamic pressure;·         Pressurization systems as part of the smoke control strategy;·         Old-type mechanical systems, and novel active control systems;·         Role of vestibules/lobbies in resiliency strategy;·         Practical examples of use;·         Testing and certification.Further recommended resources are:·         Episode 47 with Grzegorz Sypek – Effective pressurization, https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1735815/episodes/10466514-047-effective-pressurization-of-compartments-with-grzegorz-sypek·         Episode 116 – Natural and mechanical smoke control https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1735815/episodes/13493605-116-fire-fundamentals-pt-4-natural-and-powered-smoke-vents-with-wojciech·         Episode 136 – Fire Automation in a building https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1735815/episodes/14325679-136-fire-fundamentals-pt-6-the-fire-automation-in-a-building·         Węgrzyński & Antosiewicz - Autonomous Sensor-Driven Pressurization Systems: Novel Solutions and Future Trends, book chapter I've referred to in the episode. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-98685-8_11  ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Discover the hidden backbone of fire safety with assurance industry expert Abhishek Chhabra as we unravel the essential frameworks that keep our buildings safe and sound. We explore the vital role of standards, accreditations, and testing mechanisms in fostering trust and compliance within the construction industry. It is not easy to talk about, but I assure you (pun intended) that Abhishek can talk about it in an engaging and fun way.Gain a deeper understanding of the current landscape of fire safety engineering, where an urgent demand for robust credential assurance matches the scarcity of professionals. Delve into the complexities of establishing a comprehensive competence regime for the industry. Learn why the accuracy and repeatability of fire testing methods are indispensable in maintaining market trust and product safety. Through our conversation, we highlight the critical need for standards like ISO 17024, ISO 17025, ISO 17020 and 17065, ensuring that everyone, from designers to facility managers, is equipped with the necessary certifications.As global safety standards evolve, the distinction between liability and responsibility becomes increasingly crucial. At the end of the episode, we also discuss performance-based design and the potentially transformative role of laboratories and inspection bodies in developing custom solutions, addressing the unique challenges of innovative engineering projects. Join us as we explore the vital importance of testing in delivering reliable performance outcomes, particularly in an era when safety cannot be compromised.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Happy 200th birthday, Scottish Fire and Rescue Services!!! I'm a bit late to the party. Still, I've done my best to celebrate your anniversary in the best way I can - by giving homage to the amazing fire safety engineering and firefighting that came out of Edinburgh and your founder, James Braidwood. In this episode, we tap into the secrets of early fire safety measures and discover the fascinating history of firefighting with our guest, Michał Stachowicz, a dedicated Scottish firefighter. We promise you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the roots of fire engineering, which surprisingly predate the establishment of professional firefighting. From the early codifications of the 1400s to the impactful Great Fire of London in 1666, this episode is brimming with riveting tales and historical insights into the evolution of fire protection in the UK.We take a journey through time as we contrast the altruism of today's firefighters with the profit-driven origins of fire protection, shaped significantly by insurance companies. Learn about the preventative measures that were set in place long before formal fire services existed, including the fascinating use of historical firewalls in cities like Copenhagen. We also explore the pioneering efforts of James Braidwood, whose revolutionary work in risk management and fire prevention set the stage for organised firefighting in Edinburgh and London during the 19th century.Join us as we honour Braidwood's legacy and his transformative impact on fire safety regulations and practices. From his groundbreaking techniques, such as early personal protective equipment and strategic fire station placements, to his radical ideas on fire spread prevention, Braidwood's forward-thinking approach remains influential. Despite facing financial hurdles and limited cooperation, his vision for a unified fire service prevailed, underscoring the enduring significance of his contributions. Michał Stachowicz helps us celebrate the indelible mark Braidwood left on the firefighting community, offering a compelling narrative for history enthusiasts and fire safety advocates alike.Read more about Braidwood in this memoir book: Fire Prevention and Extinction by James Braidwood.Visit the Museum of Scottish Fire HeritageLearn about the Great Fire of Edinburgh Cover image: One of Edinburgh's first fire engines from 1824, By Kim Traynor - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=19965754----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Wildfire modelling is quite complicated when you wish to integrate different fuel packages with different properties in 'real' environmental conditions while managing the transition to/from smouldering. We have a model for each, but how do we make them work in unison without relying too much on their users' skills? This is a subject for a good research grant... a very big one. And this is something 'we' just got!A fire scientist from King's College London, Dr Francesco Restuccia, has just secured an ERC grant for his innovative project on wildfire modelling. The project name is Wildfires and Climate Change: Physics-Based Modelling of Fire Spread in a Changing World. In this podcast episode, we will discuss his current focus on developing physics-based models that promise to enhance our understanding of wildfire dynamics. We also focus on Francesco's current experience in batteries and how that experience translates to the work he is carrying out in the wildfires.Throughout the episode, we explore the diverse range of models that predict wildfire behaviour, from straightforward empirical approaches to intricate physics-based simulations. We dive into the complexities of balancing ease of use with accuracy and discuss the exciting potential of reduced-order models that blend empirical data with physical insights. Dr. Restuccia offers a unique perspective on the challenges of automating complex models for broader applications and the necessity of identifying fire regimes to ensure precision is not compromised.Dr. Restuccia also shares invaluable insights into securing an ERC grant, guiding aspiring researchers. From refining research ideas into a cohesive project to preparing for the competitive interview process, his experience underscores the importance of mentorship and strategic planning. We wrap up with a look at the future possibilities his research holds for fire safety engineering, inviting listeners to explore the transformative impact of advanced wildfire modelling on a global scale.The grant description can be found here:  https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101161183Do you have questions or want to send out your CV? The man told me to place his e-mail here... so here it is: francesco.restuccia@kcl.ac.uk----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

You are not supposed to use the word 'panic' in the context of human behaviour in fires, yet this episode contains 196 instances of it. Why? because we try to get to the bottom of the thing! Can panic be both a myth and a reality? Join us as we challenge the age-old narratives of panic in emergencies with our distinguished guest, Professor Daniel Nilsson, from the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand. We unravel the misconceptions surrounding human behaviour during fires, spotlighting the harmful effects of outdated myths perpetuated by media and literature. By debunking these myths, we aim to reshape fire safety engineering, focusing on realistic human reactions and informed decision-making.Our conversation takes you across cultural landscapes, from the Western world to the Soviet Union, questioning national claims of panic susceptibility and the portrayal of panic as a contagious force. Challenging the historical context, we try to figure out what panic is once you apply the scientific method to understand it.We also try to assess historical events like the Victoria Tower evacuation and the Love Parade tragedy, we underscore how engineering failures, not irrational behaviour, often lead to crowd disasters. Professor Nilsson and I delve into the psychology of decision-making during evacuations, emphasising the power of clear communication to prevent chaos and save lives.Finally, we reflect on the profound research of Quarantelli, who redefined panic through thousands of disaster case studies, revealing the complexity of human responses in crises. We explore how cultural contexts influence perceived panic behaviour by differentiating between non-rational and irrational actions. We aim to enlighten fire safety professionals and the broader audience on the importance of replacing the myth of panic with empathy and evidence-based strategies, fostering a safer and more understanding approach to emergency responses.Further reading?Sure.Daniel's paper in SFPE Europe magazine - is panic a myth or reality?Proloux and Sime paper where they challanged the limiting of information (1991)And if you really got into this, Jonathan Sime's PhDAlso, a ton of material on Human Behaviour and evacuation is waiting for you in the Uncovered Witness project!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

The Grenfell Tower tragedy has triggered a Public Inquiry (which just published their final report), and concurrently - a review of the UK Building Regulations and Fire Safety. The latter task was given to Dame Judith Hackitt, a former Head of the Health and Safety Executive and a chemical engineer. In this interview Dame Judith Hackitt lends her voice to a pressing dialogue on fire safety reform following the Grenfell Tower tragedy. She uncovers the systemic flaws that allowed such a disaster to occur and stresses the urgent need for a cultural shift in safety practices, beyond mere regulatory compliance. By dissecting the UK's Building Safety Act, we discuss the prioritization of life safety over property protection, particularly within vulnerable residential zones. This conversation not only addresses disparities between residential and commercial building regulations but urges a reevaluation of how safety standards are applied globally.The episode further explores the inadequacy of outdated fire safety frameworks in the context of modern architecture. Dame Hackitt provides insights into the necessity of involving competent fire engineers early in the design process and the importance of a holistic approach to fire risk assessment. With a new regulatory regime shifting responsibility onto duty holders, the onus is on architects, constructors, and engineers to prove safety from the onset. We highlight the growing demand for skilled fire safety professionals and the need for collaboration and transparency, setting a performance-based precedent for future safety measures.As we navigate these necessary changes, the discussion underscores the broader implications for the construction industry, including architects, designers, and product manufacturers. We delve into the challenges of adopting a new regulatory mindset, inspired by global practices and insights from esteemed reviews. Dame Hackett's perspectives advocate for industry-led guidance and innovation, stressing the potential for alliances to drive the evolution of fire safety standards. This transformative dialogue serves as a clarion call for heightened accountability and a collective pursuit of excellence within the construction landscape.If you would like to learn about the regulatory review, please read the Dame Hackitt's final report.If you would like a scientific commentary to this review, please refer to this paper by Spinardi and Law.Some of the changes to the regulatory system were also discussed in the Episode 102 of the Fire Science Show about the changing role of architects in the system.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

AI is changing the world. But can artificial intelligence truly revolutionize fire safety engineering? In this episode I took out my crystal ball, and tried to find answers in what aspects of fire engineering we could truly see a revolutionary impact of AI, and where it is more a disturbing gadget with no real application... Overall, working in the space for many years, and having talked with many luminaries of the use of AI, I would say my expectations are toned down a lot. I am still excited, but I've also learnt that really good AI applications require exceptional knowledge and resources, often at a level not accessible in fire science. While the building blocks are there, we may be short in the data, processing power or knowledge to truly apply it. At the same time, as AI became a buzzword for novelty, a lot of people pursue very simple AI applications with extraordinary claims - something that kind of triggers and annoys me...In this episode I try to give my opinion about the use of AI in:supporting fire modellingwriting and reporting (engineering and in science)data processingpredicting fire phenomenastudying fire phenomenamaterial propertiesfire testing and legislationEach of those I've ranked on an arbitrary scale of 1 - b-s. 2 - not too excited3 - a good use of AI4 - very exciting use of AI5 - paradigm shifting use of AIWhich got the highest rank? Listen to the episode to find by yourself :)In the episode I refer a lot to the previous episodes of the Fire Science Show in which AI technology was discussed. You can listen to those in the AI/ML section of the podcast, find them all here: https://www.firescienceshow.com/category/ai-ml/Big thanks to the inspirational guests and my close friends that helped me clear my mind on AI, especially to MZ Naser, Jakub Bielawski, Mike Spearpoint, Danny Hopkin, Matt Bonner, Xinyan Huang, Michael Kinsey and Mike Stromgren! ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

CFD is the most talked-over subject in the Fire Science Show. There are two reasons for that: one, it is interesting and relevant for so many of the Audience, and two, it's something I do for a living. There is also another reason: there are a lot of ideas and concepts of how CFD could be used "better", yet I struggle to see them make an impact in the world of practical engineering. I would love to see the CFD being used in fire as it is in aerospace or Formula1 industries, yet, there are some struggles and bottlenecks that prevent that. In this podcast episode, I am trying to narrow down the issues and what breakthroughs are necessary to enable scalable CFD analyses for the future. We could get so much more out of our simulations if we fully benefit from the computational power revolution and pursue new data processing methods. The latter are discussed in-depth, showcasing our newest developments at the ITB. Recommended Fire Science Show episodes:Fire Fundamentals pt 7 - CFD simulations in fire Fire Fundamentals pt 11 - Boundary conditions in CFDEpisode 13 with Wolfram Jahn on Use and abuse of CFDEpisode 81 with Kevin McGrattan on the origins of FDSEpisode 167 with Jonathan Hodges on simulating fire effects and growth----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

One could argue full-scale experiments on fire phenomena are the most enriching for our knowledge as the fire community. The costs associated with them and logistical nightmares of organizing them make them an uncommon sight. However, in an instance where we reach the boundaries of our knowledge, they are necessary to progress further. That was the case of the research programme carried out by the OFR, in the umbrella of Structural Timber Association Special Interest Group (SIG) - CLT compartment fire behaviour, including the industrial partners: Binderholtz, KLH and Stora Enso, Henkel and Fermacell. Two large experimental packages of that collaboration ended up in my laboratory, and we got to test our hypothesis and progress our approach to designing mass timber through experiments.In this podcast episode, Dr Danny Hopkin makes a comeback to the show to give us insight into the observations and conclusions of those very large research programmes. We focus on how findings relate to the current design paradigm, and in which areas the approach has shifted. Following the evolution of the experiment itself, we discuss the changes in the fire behaviour as less and less surfaces were encapsulated, and some problems with partial protection that emerged as a consequence. Finally, we cover topics such as delamination, self-extinction and external flame from mass timber buildings – all important considerations for a designer.If you would like to learn more about the experiments we have done, please go to the research papers:Hopkin D., et al. Full-Scale Fire Experiments on Cross-Laminated Timber Residential Enclosures Featuring Different Lining Protection ConfigurationsHopkin D., et al. Large-Scale Enclosure Fire Experiments Adopting CLT Slabs with Different Types of Polyurethane Adhesives: Genesis and Preliminary FindingsHopkin D., et al. Implications Of A Down-stand Beam On The Ceiling Flame Extension Characteristics In A Large-scale Clt Enclosure Fire ExperimentOr the STA document library.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

I approach modelling water mist with caution. Not that I don't understand it, but because I lack clarity in the goals and objectives, as well I'm usually aware I may not deliver the expectations of my clients in terms of the physical phenomena I am capturing... And I'm not the only one like this. In this podcast episode I explore the world of water mist with Dr Max Lakkonen from IFAB, who has just been chosen as the new President of the International Water Mist Association (IWMA),Max dives into the history and evolution of water mist technology, explaining how a catastrophic fire on a Scandinavian Star Cruise liner 35 years ago led to its commercial introduction. Discover why understanding droplet size is crucial for optimising water mist systems and why it's important to understand these systems with a clear understanding of objectives to achieve effective fire safety solutions.Max discusses the necessity of extensive experimental testing to account for different nozzle types, pressures, and flow rates, highlighting the complexity involved in designing these systems. We also touch on the importance of industry collaboration and the role of organizations like IWMA in bridging the gap between specialized water mist companies and fire safety engineers, ultimately ensuring the dissemination of crucial information and best practices.Dive into the intricacies of CFD modelling in fire safety engineering, especially for water mist systems. Max brings to light the limitations of relying solely on CFD without experimental validation and the benefits of using CFD for preliminary studies to save both time and costs. We address the unique challenges of modelling cooling effects, fire suppression in tunnels, and the need for best practices and guidelines in fire safety engineering. Listen in to gain valuable insights from one of the leading experts in the field and understand why practical application often trumps academic theory in real-world fire control scenarios.Most importantly, the CFD Position Paper we have promised to you is available to download now!!!Make sure to visit the International Water Mist Association site for more resources and the necessary connection with the industry.The cover image was captured at the Baltic Fire Laboratory during ITB-FRISSBE Summer School. If you want to see it live, pay attention to our announcements on LinkedIn, and perhaps we can see each other next summer!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

What happens to controlled doors when a fire is detected in the building? They unlock. Elevators? They go down. People are guided somewhere, and the fire strategy is executed. As it should.But what if the real threat is not the fire itself? What if the real threat is using the fire as a decoy or, worse, as a tool? What if the threat has intelligence, motives and the ability to adapt to the actions of our systems?Now, this is a frightening scenario. A scenario in which the security objectives could be much more important than fire ones. But we do not design our fire safety systems for such a possibility. Likewise, the security layer affects 'our' design by interfering with evacuation pathways or locking parts of the facility that we would like to keep open.In this episode, Steve Gwynne and Aoife Hunt from Movement Strategies take me on a journey of integrating fire safety and security objectives in the building design. Learn how ingress, circulation, and egress must align with safety and operational procedures, and discover the potentially catastrophic outcomes when fire safety engineers overlook security aspects.As we rethink traditional fire safety strategies in the face of modern threats, this episode explores the intersection of fire safety and security like never before. We discuss increasing fire recognition as a weapon and the necessity for integrating advanced detection systems and human behaviour training. Together with Steve and Aoife, we strongly advocate for a unified approach to building safety that leverages the strengths of both disciplines, making our environments safer and more resilient. Here, I would like to direct you towards two resources of my own:Fire Fundamentals, episode 6, covers how the building responds to a fire. Please listen to this episode but with your new 'security' view in mind. It will give you a new sense of what we do in our buildings for fire.The entire Uncovered Witness - Fire Science Revelations podcast that I am producing. In the eight episodes, we go very deep into human evacuation in a building, from regulations through building systems and management to human behaviour and decision-making. ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

EVs are becoming more of a 'normal' part of fire safety engineering rather than an 'exotic problem'. I've invited two colleagues from Thornton Tomasetti - Ali Ashrafi and Pawel Woelke, to discuss what this engineering looks like. In the episode, we discuss insights into how fire risks differ between electric and internal combustion engine vehicles and why the focus is shifting from cars to more pressing hazards like electric scooters and energy storage systems. We explore the different approaches in the US and Europe, discussing the importance of performance-based solutions and timely detection to manage fire risks effectively. W We'll also discuss the critical role of ongoing education and adaptation in the fire safety industry as technology evolves.An important aspect is the practical strategies for mitigating fire spread and explosion hazards in vehicle design and parking facilities. From the significance of separation distances and sprinklers to the potential dangers of gas accumulation, our conversation dives deep into the intricacies of ensuring a safer environment for both people and property. We also highlight the importance of early planning and thoughtful design in integrating EV infrastructure into building designs, and how real-world incidents shape our understanding and approach to EV safety. If you would like further reading, please refer to the phase 2 report from NFPA athttps://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/projects-and-reports/modern-vehicle-hazards-in-parking-garages-vehicle-carriersYou may also be interested in the investigation of the explosion hazards researched by FSRI - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016236124019677?via%3Dihub= ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Fires in the waste industry are not discussed much unless one sees a giant smoke plume in the media, followed by advice to close your windows. In these (rare?) cases, we remind ourselves of the massive industry related to storing, sorting and recycling garbage, and the obvious environmental hazards such fires pose.From 2017 to 2020, Poland experienced a challenging time with fires at landfills, primarily caused by arson or negligence. A bit later, when I was working on my chapter for the Handbook of Fire and the Environment, I saw Ragni Fjellgaard Mikalsen working on hers about waste fires, and I found that work very relevant and useful. Finally, it is time to dive deeper into the subject, and hence, I have Ragni on the podcast, and we talk about garbage! Her expertise in smouldering fires and collaborations with Norwegian authorities bring invaluable insights into the unique fire risks faced by waste handling, processing, and storage facilities. From outdoor landfills to indoor recycling centres, Ragni shares how accurate fire reporting and comprehensive data analysis can significantly enhance fire safety protocols in this crucial sector. She introduces us to the "traffic light" system to illustrate the risks at different facilities.Balancing ideal waste storage practices with economic realities is no small feat. In this episode, Ragni discusses the intricacies of managing waste storage, from controlling moisture and temperature in storage piles to proper sorting practices to minimise impurities in incoming waste. We also cover the urgent need for governmental intervention and innovative insurance solutions to tackle the high-hazard waste mismanagement issues in places like Poland. And here are the promised further reading resources from Ragni: Link to waste paper: Fires in waste facilities: Challenges and solutions from a Scandinavian perspective, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.firesaf.2020.103023 Link to Handbook: Chapter 13 on Mitigation Strategies for Waste Fires in Handbook of Fire and the Environment: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-030-94356-1The Norwegian info is based on work by RISE Fire Research in Norway: R.F. Mikalsen, K. Glansberg, K. Storesund, S. Ranneklev, Branner I Avfallsanlegg (Fires in Waste Storage) RISE-report 2019:61, RISE Fire Research, Trondheim,2019. https://risefr.no/media/publikasjoner/upload/2019/rise-rapport-2019-61-branner-i-avfallsanlegg.pdfThe Swedish info is based on work by RISE in Sweden: A. Lønnermark, P. Blomqvist. Emissions from Fires in Electrical and Electronics Waste ISSN 0284-5172, SP report 2005:42, SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden, Sweden, 2005. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn¼urn%3Anbn%3Ase%3Ari%3Adiva-4695 .A. Lønnermark, H. Persson, P. Blomqvist, W. Hogland, Biobränslen Och Avfall - Brands€akerhet i Samband Med Lagring (Biofuels and solid waste – fire safety in connection with storage) SP Report, SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden, Sweden, 2008. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn%3Anbn%3Ase%3Alnu%3Adiva-3575A. Lønnermark. Analyses of Fire Debris after Tyre Fires and Fires in Electrical and Electronics Waste ISSN 0284-5172, SP report 2005:44, SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden, 2005. ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In this episode we talk with Jonathan Hodges of the Jensen Hughes on his experience with using advanced modelling in the realm of fire safety engineering. Jonathan sheds light on how the modelling is used at various Jensen Hughes offices around the world, highlighting interesting differences they see across their practice. The core of the talk revolves around using CFD for modeling the consequences of fires, versus using it to assess the fire growth. While the first one is a commonly practiced in offices across the world, the growth part is kind of a challenge. We go into how CFD can help us develop better fire scenarios, and how they can be further improved through an influx of experimental data. In the final part of the talk we are looking ahead, as we explore the transformative potential of AI-driven CFD surrogate modeling and GPU-based solvers, including the possibility conducting real-time CFD simulations without the prohibitive computational costs—this could soon be a reality. As we discuss these innovations, it becomes clear how they could impact fire safety engineering globally, providing deeper insights into fire dynamics and more robust engineering solutions. ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In the everchanging world every now and then we get a new driver, that dictates most of our choices. In the current built environment and building industry, carbon dioxide feels like such a driver. We don't like it, we want to get rid of it... One way is to sequester or store large amounts of CO2 in our buildings. Ways to do that - more obvious is mass timber, but thats not the only thing. Let's talk bio-based insulation.In this episode I've invited Patrick Sudhoff, now from DBI but the research was carried at University of Applied Sciences Magdeburg-Stendal. Patrick carried his PhD on the smouldering fires in bio-based insulation, and thus has built a good knowledge base around the topic. We discuss all the types of different bio-based insulations, what they are made of and where they are used. First we cover the drivers and need for the new material, as well as the benefits it brings to the table. We discuss the challanges with the onset of smouldering, transition to flaming and spread of fire through the structure. List of projects that were related to the subject and discussed in the podcast:„More than just insulation additional benefits of insulation materials made from renewable raw materials “, 6 different research areas: fire protection, soundproofing, thermal insulation, sustainability analysis, moisture protection, emissions, 2016-2020, 12 institutes plus external partners“PyroProBiD – Development of a smoldering prognosis model for bio-based insulation materials”, 2020-2023 (my PhD project), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg & University of Applied Sciences Magdeburg Stendal “HoBraTec – Optimization of firefighting procedures for multistorey timber buildings", 2022-2024, Fire Brigade Hamburg & University of Applied Sciences Magdeburg-Stendal & Institute of Fire and Disaster Protection HeyrothsbergeSome literature I got from Patrick: This poster gives you a brief summary of the latest challenges and solutions regarding the fire behavior of bio-based insulation - http://dx.doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.18735.14241Further reading:Sudhoff, P. (2024): “Modeling the Fire Behavior of Bio-Based Insulation Materials”, Proceedings of the 4th International Symposium on Fire Safety of Facades 2024: 10-12 June 2024. Lund, Sweden, ISBN 978-91-89971-04-2Steen-Hansen, A., Fjellgaard M., Ehrlenspiel, R. (2023): “Smouldering fire test methods - Documenting the potential for smouldering fires in thermal insulation”, Report number: FRIC Report D3.1-2023.06, November 2023, http://dx.doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.21978.72640 Steen-Hansen, A., Mikalsen, R.F. & Jensen, U.E (2018) Smouldering Combustion in Loose-Fill Wood Fibre Thermal Insulation: An Experimental Study. Fire Technol 54, 1585–1608. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10694-018-0757-4----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Is the "best practice" always the best approach to solving an engineering problem? Can we consider "best" and "appropriate" practices synonymous, and if not - how big is the gap between them? Join us as we welcome Professor Arnold Dix back to challenge conventional wisdom in engineering. Focusing on the nuanced distinction between "best practice" and "appropriate practice," we explore how context-sensitive solutions outperform complex and costly standards. Using real-world examples like tunnel ventilation systems, we illustrate the power of practicality, cost-effectiveness, and suitability in engineering, particularly in fire safety.We also uncover the hidden economic motives that shape our engineering standards. From Stockholm's innovative fire suppression mechanisms integrated into everyday systems to the critical role of regulatory bodies in enforcing effective safety measures, we highlight the benefits of familiar, reliable solutions over specialized ones. Personal anecdotes and international examples, including a farm story and regulations in Poland, bring these concepts to life, showing how everyday systems can enhance reliability and community awareness.Finally, we explore how different nations approach tunnel construction and infrastructure preservation. Highlighting the challenges and successes of countries like Argentina, Chile, China, and Malaysia, we emphasise the importance of building local expertise and resilience. This episode invites you to reconsider how we define and implement standards across various fields by examining practical solutions in ventilation systems and the importance of context-sensitive engineering practices. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on what constitutes best engineering practice and beyond.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

The last time I had Xinyan on the show was in 2021, and we were all excited about the possibilities that AI could bring to Fire Safety Engineering and Smart Firefighting. Three years have passed, and while we are still excited, we can now talk about experiences. What worked and what did not? Where were the challenges, and what was simple? You can only learn that from brainstorming, you learn this by doing. Xinyan's team implemented dozens of algorithms for various projects, and it is this experience we try to explore today. The episode is bitter-sweet. Even though considerable progress was made in the AI layer, it is still not possible to implement this in firefighting. The barriers that always separated fire science from firefighting are still in place, and it is even harder to cross them with such a novel approach. As always, communication is the key. However, in the midst of the research, a realization was made. AI does not work that great with humans, but works perfectly well with robots. This gives a beginning to a new chapter - AI-powered robotic firefighting, and hell, this is really exciting stuff.Besides smart firefighting, we spend good time discussing use of AI in Fire Safety Engineering itself. Xinyan's team is developing practical tools to assist the designers and engineers, and they look promising. What is most interesteing is that the implementation of those tools reasembles  how CFD was implemented back in the day - I have huge hopes for this technology.If you want to read more about AI in PBD FSE, this is the paper you look for: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352710221003867#appsec1If you want to learn more about the work of the PolyU X Fire Lab, learn more on their up-to-date webpage:  https://www.firelabxy.com/----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Soot is perhaps the most complex product of combustion, and at the same time one of the most profound for our everyday fire safety engineering. The topic of soot is not getting much love in the world of fire science, so I've chosen to give you a broad introduction to this subject. In this episode of fire fundamentals we will go through:·         Soot creation from chemical perspective;·         Soot creation from practical perspective;·         Soot effects on radiation, toxicity and obscuration;·         Extinction coefficient and specific extinction coefficient;·         Soot yield and surrogate value of soot yield for complex fuels.If you would like to follow up on this episode with some reading, I highly recommend:·         Bart Merci and Tarek Beji book „Fluid Mechanics Aspects of Fire and Smoke Dynamics in Enclosures”·         Jose Torero lecture “Prof. Jose Torero - Fire: A Story of Fascination, Familiarity and Fear” available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIY0litILRA&t=2082s·         W. Węgrzyński and G. Vigne, Experimental and numerical evaluation of the influence of the soot yield on the visibility in smoke in CFD analysis – the paper with the source of our surrogate value of soot yield for complex fuels in fire safety engineering https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0379711217301327?via%3Dihub·         G. Mulholland, C. Croarkin Specific extinction coefficient of flame generated smoke https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/1099-1018%28200009/10%2924%3A5%3C227%3A%3AAID-FAM742%3E3.0.CO%3B2-9·         W. Węgrzyński, P. Antosiewicz, J. Fangrat, Multi-Wavelength Densitometer for Experimental Research on the Optical Characteristics of Smoke Layers, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10694-021-01139-5·         K. Börger, A. Belt, T. Schultze, L. Arnold, Remote Sensing of the Light-Obscuring Smoke Properties in Real-Scale Fires Using a Photometric Measurement Method, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10694-023-01470-z----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In this episode of Experiments that Changed Fire Science we cover T. Jin's experiments on the visibility in smoke – two experiments carried out in 1970 and 1971 in Japan that truly changed the way how we model fires and how we design fire safety in our buildings.This episodes presents my recollection of Jin's experiments, based on the published work – the seminal paper at the IAFSS in 1997 (https://publications.iafss.org/publications/fss/5/3/view/fss_5-3.pdf) and the original material published in Japanese in 1970 and 1971:Jin, T. (1970). Visibility through Fire Smoke (I). Bulletin of the Fire Prevention Society of Japan, 19(2).Jin, T. (1971). Visibility through Fire Smoke (II). Bulletin of the Fire Prevention Society of Japan, 21(1).In the episode, I highlight the technical details of the experiments and their potential impact on the findings. I also present the overall model proposed by Jin, indicating the variables that influence it, and my recollection of how this model was implemented in modern fire safety engineering.Further readings to this would be some of my papers:Węgrzyński, W., & Vigne, G. (2017). Experimental and numerical evaluation of the influence of the soot yield on the visibility in smoke in CFD analysis. Fire Safety Journal, 91(SI), 389–398. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.firesaf.2017.03.053Węgrzyński, W., Antosiewicz, P., & Fangrat, J. (2021). Multi-Wavelength Densitometer for Experimental Research on the Optical Characteristics of Smoke Layers. Fire Technology, 57(5), 2683–2706. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10694-021-01139-5And a very recent paper by my collaborators from Wuppertal:Gnendiger, C., Schultze, T., Börger, K., Belt, A., & Arnold, L. (2024). Extinction coefficients from aerosol measurements. Fire Safety Journal, 146, 104110. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.firesaf.2024.104110Please also visit episode https://www.firescienceshow.com/030-visibility-prediction-framework-with-lukas-arnold/ with my friend Lukas Arnold, on how we intend to change the visibility prediction in fire safety engineering!This research was funded in part by National Science Centre, Poland in the grant OPUS 2020/39/I/ST8/03159. ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Is evacuation of a community during a wildfire largely different from evacuation of a building? How much of the knowledge from the building fires is directly useful in planning and managing such an event, and what stuff is completely different? These are the lead questions for my today's interview with prof. Enrico Ronchi from Lund University and dr Max Kinateder from  National Research Council Canada. Both guests currently research the evacuation layer of the WUI problem – starting with the response of the endangered people, through choice of the mode of the transport, to solving the transportation models of such evacuations. A multilayered, multifaceted and interdisciplinary challenge, but one we need to have a good understanding of if we want to deliver good risk based, knowledge informed guidance for communities at risk.In this episode, we got through their research pinpointing the difference between the building and a community evacuation. We touch the methods of research that are currently in used, and what kind of models they can inform. Finally, we get to talk about their recent experimental study during a fire drill in Roxborough Park, Colorado. This has literally happened a few days ago, and we can already discuss the challenges, and the first ‘anecdotal' findings of the study.Becoming open to the WUI problem and learning the challenges that are in front of us in this regard is critical to fire safety engineering, especially at the time when we observe Wildfire Safety Engineering becoming more of a real thing! I foresee that in future, a lot of us will work in the wildfire  prevention / mitigation/contingency space, and I hope you will appreciate the fact you've learned it first from the Fire Science Show! ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In the episode 10 of fire fundamentals together with David Morrisset, a nearly graduated PhD student from the University of Edinburgh, we explore the intricate dynamics of flame spread and its crucial role in fire safety engineering. David helps us differentiate between the two primary modes of flame spread, concurrent (imagine upward spread) and opposed (imagine downward spread), and explains how understanding these mechanisms can significantly enhance building safety and fire risk mitigation.In this episode, we take a closer look at various materials like PMMA and timber and their unique fire behaviors. We also examine the complexities of flame spread on charring solids such as timber, discussing how pyrolysis and the resulting char layer influence heat transfer and flame behavior.Lastly, we dissect the heat transfer mechanisms in various materials, from foams to solid slabs, and how factors like orientation and material properties affect flame spread rates. David highlights the balance between gas phase and solid phase heat transfer and the importance of precise modeling to predict flame behaviors accurately. Phemonena discussed here:flame spread definitionconcurrent vs opposed flame spreadregimes of flame spreaddriving mechanisms of flame spreadFurther reading: Quantifying the controlling mechanisms of opposed flow flame spread: Influence of orientation, material, and external heating Characterization of Flame Spread Over PMMA Using a Temperature Reconstruction MethodThe relative position of pyrolysis onset and flame front location for downward flame spreadAnd even though we did not have time to discuss diagnostics in the episode, you can check this crazy paper of David:Assessment and application of phosphor thermometry for spatially resolved surface temperature measurements during downward flame spreadCover image: edited from Figure 1 in https://doi.org/10.1016/j.firesaf.2023.104048----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

With two Directors at NFPA - Michele Steinberg and Birgitte Messerschmidt, I'm trying to find an answer to a burning question - "what really is the WUI problem?" The WUI is not just a line on a map with an X distance from the forest... In this episode we try to define what it is, and who is in danger. Instead of our usual conversations looking into characteristics of burning forests, or seeking the impact of detailing in construction, in this episode we try to take a birds eye view and identify the problem across the scales and frameworks. From seeking out good definitions and their impact on policymaking, through technical solutions up to creating new testing and certification systems. So where are the answers? Actions across the scales at homeowner - community - regional levels, in which they are interconnected and optimal. A fireproof house in the middle of wrongfully managed area will not be of great difference… As well as a dangerous premise at the edge of the forest… The outcome of a WUI fire incoming will be an outcome of propper actions taken at every level.We need new solutions. Scallable ones. We need better testing and standardization, new listings. We need to find ways to involve the private sector and create interesting pathways for fire safety engineers to work with people at risk, at whatever scale. The future looks promising, let's make sure we are a part of it. Some recommended resources I received from my eminent Guests:Impact of smoke in WUI fires: https://www.nfpa.org/en/news-blogs-and-articles/nfpa-journal/2024/02/13/research-column-spring-24Defining the WUI: https://www.nfpa.org/news-blogs-and-articles/nfpa-journal/2024/04/30/defining-the-wuiPreparing homes for wildfire (home ignition zone): https://www.nfpa.org/en/education-and-research/wildfire/preparing-homes-for-wildfireThe Firewise USA Recognition program: https://www.nfpa.org/en/education-and-research/wildfire/firewise-usa/become-a-firewise-usa-siteOutthink Wildfire policy initiative: https://www.nfpa.org/en/Education-and-Research/Policy-and-Action/Outthink-Wildfire ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In today's Fire Science Show, we talk about how boundary conditions can make or break your fire simulation models. We'll explore boundary conditions' fundamental role in defining how simulations interact with their environments and how mastering these can lead to more accurate and reliable fire simulation models. I hope we break down some complex topics into manageable insights. Also, I hope we've turned something really boring into an interesting and fun episode. We discuss:1. Boundaries interacting with flow:pressure inlets/outlets [open];velocity boundary conditions [vents];mass flow inlets;fans and HVAC models.2. Boundaries containing the flow - walls:heat transfer at walls;shear at walls.And other minor boundaries such as symmetry and interior. The episode is largely based on my expertise with ANSYS Fluent, but I've tried to make it relatable to FDS as well, ensuring that the content is practical and valuable for your work in fire science and simulation modeling.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

A critical velocity episode... who would have thought? Even though I'm not an enthusiast of this approach, I have to admire the new science and researchers striving to improve it. This week I welcome Conrad Stacey and Michael Beyer from Stacey Agnew to talk about their recent developments. We'll take you through the historical development of this concept since its inception in 1958, examining key variables like tunnel height and heat release rate along the way. We go into the Memorial Tunnel experimental project, and we discuss the context and the economic implications of recent updates to the NFPA 502 standards, exploring how changes in required ventilation speeds have impacted tunnel design costs and stirred controversy. Conrad and Michael provide fresh insights into the complexities of tunnel smoke control, the distinction between critical and confinement velocities, and the significance of fire intensity in tunnel environments. Focusing on the historical Memorial Tunnel study, they explain the experiments that have been the source of our current models and how revisiting this data with modern CFD techniques allowed them to analyze this even further. With their newly proposed model for assessing critical velocity, the HRR of the fire is not considered as an important variable anymore, and replaced with the fire intensity (HRR Per-Unit-Area). This follows an observation that it is just the front of the fire that interacts with the incoming air, and thus making fire larger by making it 'longer' does not influence the outcomes - a new feature consistent with their newly defined model and Memorial Tunnel data.You can read their study here: https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-4278205/v1Some previous takes on the critical velocity by the team: CRITICAL OF CRITICAL VELOCITY – AN INDUSTRY PRACTITIONER'S PERSPECTIVE Critical velocity and the significance of the imminent retraction of 2020 NFPA 502's Annex D critical velocity equations Part OneCritical velocity and tunnel smoke control Part 2 - Filling the NFPA 502 void----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

What if you could predict the last possible time to evacuate your community before a wildfire wreaks havoc? What if you had that knowledge years before the wildfires happened and built up your preparedness based on this knowledge? What if you knew how this boundary changes with wind, dry weather and direction?  I think you get a knowledge-based decision model, and that is exactly what my guests today have been looking for.Join us as we explore this cutting-edge approach with Imperial Hazelab Dr. Harry Mitchell and Nick Kalogeropoulos, who reveal the trigger boundary methodology developed within the WUI-NITY project. Their innovative work determines optimal evacuation timings by calculating an imaginary line where the time needed to evacuate aligns perfectly with the available time, thus ensuring safer exits. This episode promises to equip you with new insights into fire safety engineering that go beyond wildfires.We take a sobering look at the dire consequences of delayed evacuations, spotlighting real-life tragedies like the 2018 Mati fire in Greece. Our discussion underscores the crucial importance of recognising imminent danger, addressing architectural hindrances, and improving inadequate road networks. In the episode, we discuss the first iteration - the Population Evacuation Trigger Algorithm (PERIL), a tool designed to establish robust trigger boundaries for more effective and timely evacuations. This was later developed into a probabilistic tool, with a significantly higher capabilities.In the episode, we discuss the complexities of wildfire evacuation modelling, discussing how transitioning from single scenario studies to probabilistic models offers a more nuanced understanding of various parameters such as wind and fuel moisture. Operational fire models like Farsight are pivotal in predicting fire spread and smoke, balancing detailed physical models with actionable results. We wrap up by emphasising the necessity of integrating community resilience, fuel conditioning, and improved planning to mitigate wildfire tragedies, highlighting the collaborative efforts that make these advancements possible.Further reading for this episode includes:Integrating wildfire spread and evacuation times to design safe triggers: Application to two rural communities using PERIL modelDesign of stochastic trigger boundaries for rural communities evacuating from a wildfireThe simulation of wildland-urban interface fire evacuation: The WUI-NITY platformWUI-NITY Reports----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Misconceptions in fire science are a strange thing. You present countless proof, publish research papers, and carry conversations, and yet… they live their own lives—spreading with no control and cluttering communication. One space is full of them—the fire safety of photovoltaic installations on flat roofs. In the Fire Science Show, we already had two very powerful episodes on PV—one with Jens Kristensen and one more recently with Reidar Stølen. In today's episode, we highlight a new guideline document published by the team at FRISSBE led by Prof. Grunde Jomaas. I invited Grunde to walk me through their document, and I took this opportunity to learn the origins, sources and inspirations for all the aspects they covered. The guideline takes you through ignition, fire spread, building roof construction and firefighting, giving a unique holistic overhaul of the topic. Most importantly, it is short, concise, and written in the most approachable way. This is a really good example of how communication in fire science should look. You can access the guideline directly here: https://www.frissbe.eu/upload/files/FRISSBE-ZAG%20BAPV%20Fire%20Safety%20Guideline%20May%202024%20v3.pdfTo complement this piece, you may also read this article on the background: Rus, N., Jomaas, G. (2024) PV guidelines – are the recommendations sufficiently evidence-based? As my personal recommendation, Grunde is a top communicator on LinkedIn, and you should follow him. He also runs a weekly newsletter, Burning Matters. I highly recommend this resource! ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Happy birthday, Fire Science Show! On the 3rd Anniversary of the podcast launch, I'm thrilled to deliver an episode on one of the most fascinating aspects of fire science - the compartment fire. Instead of going through the usual curriculum of the phases of fire, transitioning into flashover and flashover itself, I instead focus on the methodology's practical aspects. Which parts of the building have the largest impact on the fire? What is the impact of the opening? How much fuel matters? What happens in a large compartment, and how does it differ from a small one? Those are the sorts of questions I've asked myself while preparing for this episode, and the answers are hopefully in the episode.In the episode, I highlight the essential contributions of key figures like Quintiere, Drysdale,  Kawagoe, Haramathy and Torero, whose pioneering work has shaped our understanding of fire dynamics. Listen as we dissect the impact of openings on fire behaviour, the role of materials, and the challenges of modelling complex fire scenarios, offering practical insights for fire engineers.Reflecting on historical milestones and recent advancements, we also examine the travelling fire framework and its application in the structural analysis of large buildings. This episode emphasizes the significance of parametric fire curves and the need for an integrated approach to fire physics in engineering. If you would like to dive deeper, read:D.Drysdale, Introduction to Fire Dynamics (book)B. Karlsson and J. Quintiere, Enclosure fire dynamics (book)J. Torero et al., (2014) Revisiting the Compartment FireAnd two classics:T.Z. Haramathy, A new look at Compartment Fires Part I and Part II (1972)K. Kawagoe, Fire Behaviour in Rooms, Report of the Building Research Institute No. 27 (1958) - this one I do not have the direct link, so I will take a bit of a search.Thank you for being with the Fire Science Show for 3 years! As we celebrate our commitment to delivering high-quality content every Wednesday, I look ahead with excitement and gratitude, dedicated to continuing our shared journey of learning and discovery in the fascinating world of fire science. Thank you for being part of our community, and here's to many more enlightening episodes!----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

I'm very sorry, but I could not finalize the episode to air this week in time, and in consequence, I have chosen to have a short technical break in the podcast. We will return next week with a (hopefully) really exciting episode on compartment fires! It will be kind of a birthday party, so I'm looking forward to that and trying to ensure the episode is worthy of the occasion.In the meantime, as you perhaps have a spare hour of your time and no podcast to listen to... I would love to invite you to my other project - Uncovered Witness. It is also a podcast focused on fire science - if you like the Fire Science Show, you will also love that one. I'll just share that episode 3 of that series is my favourite, and in my own opinion, among the best content I've ever created :)----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

A few weeks ago in Copenhagen, stepping onto the stage to open the SFPE Fire Safety Conference and Expo on Performance-Based Design, I took a bit of a gamble. I was invited to give an opening keynote, but instead of talking about my fire science and engineering, I've chosen to confront an often-overlooked cornerstone of our profession: communication. If you follow the podcast, it is not something new to you. I brought up this case multiple times - Fire safety is not just about the technical mastery of fire dynamics and code compliance – we, as engineers, need to be as adept with our communications so that our solutions are put into practice. In this episode, I'm giving my best attempt to recreate my I share the insights from my keynote, focusing on articulating complex fire safety strategies across diverse competencies and the crucial need for innovation in our communication methods. The art of communication within fire safety engineering is akin to translating an intricate language for a varied audience. From investors to fellow engineers in MEP and HVAC, ensuring each stakeholder not only grasps but values the information is key to effective implementation. By popular request, I hope you enjoy this talk for all those who were not able to make it to the SFPE conference in Copenhagen. And those who were there, this perhaps serves as a good refresher of that event and perhaps a point to restart some of the most interesting discussions that happened there.----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In this episode, we dive into standardization efforts for fire safety. An entire universe of testing laboratories, committees, auditors, and certifiers work together to provide product end-user fire safety classification. So, in the end, the user does not have to worry about what the product will do, as its relevant characteristics are well known from the certificate and, to some extent, from the standards.But that's a perfect world. In the real world, it is perhaps not that simple. Crafting a good standard takes time and effort. And numerous features make standard good. This is the discussion between me and Björn Sundström, teaching fire professionals in Luleå Technical University and who is with Brandforsk, and someone who spent most of his professional career in fire laboratories in Scandinavia.As mentioned in the intro, I also highly recommend other Fire Science Show episodes on the subject. I think Bjorn's episode provides excellent background, so perhaps they are worth a revisit if you have already heard them.070 - Fire resistance is whatever you want it to be with Piotr Turkowski089 - Designing law by disasters (or not?) with Birgitte Messerschmidt140 - Development and implementation of the SBI test with Rudolf van Mierlo----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

The fire is detected in the building. Please evacuate. Do not use the elevator.I've heard this emergency message perhaps a thousand times. It is deeply engraved in my mind to the extent that the moment I hear the first beep of the fire alarm, I know this message will come up. I heard the chime sound, and I knew I should evacuate and not use the elevator.But in all seriousness, why? Why shouldn't I use the elevator, and what would happen if I did (in case the building would not prevent me from doing so…)? This is the reason I've invited Dr Axel Mossberg from Brandskyddslaget, who has done his PhD on the subject of behavioural aspects in elevator evacuation and was involved in the design of multiple buildings in which elevator evacuation strategy was employed. In this episode, we try to figure out where the stigma comes from. We compare the staircase and elevator evacuation in terms of their efficiencies and the occupant behaviour/choices related to the process. We also discuss the features of a safe elevator that can provide an equivalent level of safety to an area of refuge, and perhaps even to a staircase.If you would like to learn more about the topic, I highly recommend: Axel's PhD thesis, which is available here: https://portal.research.lu.se/files/118613954/Axel_Mossberg_e_spik.pdfAxel's paper on Evaluating new evacuation systems related to human behaviour using a situational awareness approach – A study of the implementation of evacuation elevators in an underground facility,  Axel's paper on Unannounced Evacuation Experiment in a High-Rise Hotel Building with Evacuation Elevators: A Study of Evacuation Behaviour Using Eye-TrackingAs well as this paper by Erika Kuligowski from 2003 given to CTBUH, which remains very actual 20 years later: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267797629_Elevators_for_occupant_evacuation_and_fire_department_access ----The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.