Con Tech Flashcards

Question

What is the fire evacuation strategy in one of your buildings?

Answer 1

Bloombger. Phased evacuation, if smok/fire is detected on the floors, then that floor and two floors above are evacuated, then floor by floor until everyone is evacuated

Answer 2

two layers of detection, both independent of each other, used to minise false alarsm and ensure suppression is deployed only when a fire is verfie- both go off. Useful in comms rooms

Answer 3

simultaneous is once a fire alarm goes off the whole beuilding is evacuated, phased is when not everyone is evacuted straight away

Answer 4

"Passive Fire Protection is essential for containing fires, protecting structures, and ensuring safe evacuation. assive fire protection refers to built-in measures designed to contain fires, slow their spread, and protect building occupants and structures without requiring any manual or automatic activation Key Features of Passive Fire Protection: Containment: PFP systems aim to compartmentalize the fire by using fire-resistant walls, floors, and doors, preventing its spread to other areas. No Activation Required: Passive fire protection measures are always in place and do not require any external action or power source to function. Fire-Resistant Materials: Utilizes materials designed to withstand fire for a specified period (e.g., fire-rated concrete, steel, or intumescent coatings). Examples of Passive Fire Protection: Fire-Resistant Walls and Floors: Designed to compartmentalize the building and prevent fire from spreading horizontally or vertically. Fire Doors: Fire-rated doors that resist fire and smoke while allowing safe egress. Fireproof Coatings: Intumescent paints and fire-resistant coatings applied to structural elements like steel beams to prevent structural failure during a fire. Fire-Stopping Systems: Sealing systems (e.g., fire collars, sealants, and barriers) used to block gaps or penetrations in walls, floors, or ceilings. Structural Integrity: Design elements, such as reinforced concrete or fire-rated steel, that maintain a building's stability during a fire. Benefits of Passive Fire Protection: Always in Place: PFP systems work automatically, without requiring activation or intervention. Slows Fire Spread: Provides critical time for occupants to evacuate and for firefighters to respond. Reduces Property Damage: Prevents fire from spreading to other parts of the building. Low Maintenance: Once installed, PFP measures typically require minimal maintenance compared to AFP systems. Limitations of Passive Fire Protection: No Fire Fighting Ability: PFP systems do not extinguish fires; they only contain or slow their spread. Dependent on Design and Quality Materials: Effectiveness relies heavily on proper installation and compliance with fire safety standards. "

Answer 5

"Active fire protection refers to systems and measures designed to detect, suppress, or extinguish fires. AFP systems require activation (manual or automatic) and often rely on technology or external power sources. Key Features of Active Fire Protection: Detection and Suppression: AFP systems actively detect fires and suppress or extinguish them to protect occupants and property. Requires Activation: AFP systems rely on triggers such as heat, smoke, or manual intervention to function. Fire Fighting Capability: AFP systems are designed to actively combat fires and limit damage. Examples of Active Fire Protection: Fire Alarms: Smoke detectors, heat detectors, and alarm systems that alert occupants to evacuate. Sprinkler Systems: Automatically activated systems that release water or other extinguishing agents to suppress a fire. Fire Extinguishers: Portable devices used manually to extinguish small fires. Gas Suppression Systems: Systems that release inert gases (e.g., FM-200 or CO₂) to suppress fires in sensitive environments like data centers. Fire Hose Reels: Installed hoses connected to the building's water supply for manual firefighting. Benefits of Active Fire Protection: Extinguishes Fires: AFP systems actively suppress or extinguish fires, reducing damage and risk. Early Detection: Fire alarms and detectors provide early warning, allowing quicker evacuation and response. Versatile Applications: AFP systems can be tailored to specific environments (e.g., gas suppression for server rooms or sprinklers for general areas). Limitations of Active Fire Protection: Requires Activation: AFP systems rely on triggers, and incorrect installation or failure to activate may reduce effectiveness. Ongoing Maintenance: Regular testing and servicing are required to ensure AFP systems function correctly when needed. May Cause Secondary Damage: Suppression systems like sprinklers or extinguishers may cause water or chemical damage to property."

Answer 6

OOH work for noisy works

Answer 7

scaffolding, access towers, temp staircases, temp roads, hoarding

Answer 8

"Contractor’s Design Portion (CDP) If the contractor is responsible for designing and executing temporary works, these would fall under the Contractor’s Design Portion (CDP). Temporary works design and execution must comply with the agreed specifications and requirements detailed in the Employer’s Requirements. Typically, temporary works would be addressed in the Schedule of Contractor’s Design (if included in the contract). 2. Specification and Drawings Temporary works are often described in the Specification or Contract Drawings provided by the employer as part of the contract documents. These documents may include requirements for specific temporary works, such as: Scaffolding Propping Shoring Access systems Cofferdams or excavation supports The contractor must comply with these specifications when planning and executing temporary works. 3. Contractor’s Responsibility The contractor is typically responsible for all means and methods of construction, including temporary works, under the JCT contract. This responsibility is outlined in: Clause 2.1 (Contractor’s Obligations): The contractor must carry out and complete the works in accordance with the contract documents, which include any requirements for temporary works. Clause 3.1 (Contractor’s Design Responsibility): If temporary works involve design by the contractor, they must adhere to the contractual design obligations. 4. Temporary Works Design Temporary works design may need to be submitted to the Employer or Contract Administrator for approval, depending on the contract provisions. Submission requirements (e.g., drawings, calculations) are typically outlined in the Employer’s Requirements or Schedule of Contractor’s Design. 5. Health and Safety Temporary works must comply with health and safety regulations, which are indirectly referenced in the JCT contract: Clause 2.35 (Compliance with Statutory Requirements): The contractor must comply with all applicable laws, including health and safety regulations such as the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015). Temporary works are often critical for ensuring site safety, and their design and execution must follow the CDM regulations. 6. Responsibility for Risk Temporary works are typically considered the contractor’s risk under the JCT contract unless explicitly stated otherwise. Relevant clauses include: Clause 6.1 (Contractor’s Indemnity): The contractor indemnifies the employer against risks associated with the works, which include temporary works. Clause 5.1–5.7 (Insurance for the Works): Temporary works may be covered under the contractor’s insurance for the execution of the works. 7. Site Logistics Temporary works related to site logistics (e.g., access roads, scaffolding, or site accommodation) may be included in the Employer’s Requirements for design and construction. These are detailed in the Preliminaries section of the contract documents, which outline general requirements for site operations. 8. Contractor’s Programme Temporary works may be factored into the Contractor’s Programme, which details how the contractor intends to execute the works. The employer or contract administrator may require the contractor to include temporary works in their construction schedule to ensure proper coordination. 9. Variations If temporary works not originally specified in the contract become necessary, they may be introduced as variations under: Clause 5.2 (Changes to Works): The employer or contract administrator may instruct additional temporary works. Clause 5.6 (Valuation of Variations): Costs for additional temporary works would be valued and reimbursed according to the contract. 10. Subcontractor Involvement If temporary works are carried out by subcontractors, responsibilities may be detailed in: Clause 3.7 (Subcontracting): The contractor remains responsible for subcontracted temporary works unless agreed otherwise. 11. Quality and Inspection Temporary works may need to meet specified quality standards outlined in the Employer’s Requirements or Specification. Inspections of temporary works may be required to verify compliance before continuing with permanent works. Summary In a JCT contract, temporary works are not explicitly labeled as a separate section but are addressed through various parts of the contract, including: Employer’s Requirements or Specification: Details the specific needs for temporary works. Contractor’s Obligations (Clause 2.1): Places the responsibility for temporary works on the contractor. Contractor’s Design Portion (CDP): Addresses design responsibility for temporary works if applicable. Health and Safety Compliance: Ensures temporary works meet statutory requirements. Preliminaries: Includes logistical requirements, site setup, and temporary works provisions. Variations: Allows for additional temporary works to be instructed and valued. Temporary works are generally considered part of the contractor’s responsibility unless explicitly stated otherwise in the contract documents."

Answer 9

make them visible, warning lights, aviation obstruction lights

Answer 10

acoustic benefis, help the space feel warmer- may be better for neurodiversity

Answer 11

"EPIC valves Wind Turbines: Convert wind energy into electricity, similar to solar panels, with minimal environmental impact. Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Capture and reuse rainwater for irrigation or domestic use, reducing water consumption. Green Building Materials: Use of materials like recycled steel, bamboo, or carbon-neutral concrete to reduce the environmental impact of construction. Electric Vehicles (EVs): Powered by renewable energy sources, EVs reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Smart Grids: Optimize electricity distribution and integrate renewable energy sources into the grid efficiently."

Answer 12

"Split HVAC System Description: A split system consists of two main units: Indoor Unit: Contains the evaporator coil and air handler. Outdoor Unit: Contains the compressor and condenser coil. Commonly used for cooling and heating individual rooms or zones. Applications: Residential homes. Small commercial spaces. Example: A ductless mini-split system installed in a home for efficient heating and cooling. 2. Packaged HVAC System Description: All components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, and air handler) are combined into a single unit. Typically installed outside the building (on rooftops or ground level). Applications: Small commercial buildings. Homes with limited space for indoor units. Example: Packaged rooftop HVAC units used in small office buildings. 3. Central HVAC System Description: A centralized system that conditions air for the entire building. Uses ducts to distribute conditioned air to multiple spaces. Includes heating (furnace or boiler), cooling (air conditioner or chiller), and ventilation components. Applications: Large residential buildings. Hotels. Office buildings. Example: A central air conditioning system in a hotel providing uniform cooling throughout all rooms. 4. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) System Description: A highly efficient system where refrigerant is circulated to multiple indoor units, allowing simultaneous heating and cooling. Ideal for zoned temperature control. Applications: Commercial buildings. Multi-family residences. Healthcare facilities. Example: A VRF system in an office building where different zones can have independent temperature settings."

Answer 13

"Part A: Structure Ensures buildings are structurally safe and stable. Covers standards for foundations, walls, roofs, and building loads (e.g., wind, snow, or weight of occupants). Part B: Fire Safety Volume 1: Covers fire safety in dwellings (e.g., houses and flats). Volume 2: Covers fire safety in non-domestic buildings (e.g., offices, shops, and schools). Includes guidance on fire resistance, means of escape, fire alarms, and sprinklers. Part C: Site Preparation and Resistance to Contaminants and Moisture Ensures buildings are protected from moisture, flooding, and contaminants (e.g., radon gas or harmful chemicals in the ground). Part D: Toxic Substances Focuses on preventing exposure to toxic substances, such as materials that may release harmful fumes (e.g., asbestos). Part E: Resistance to the Passage of Sound Addresses sound insulation in buildings to reduce noise transmission between dwellings and within buildings (e.g., separating floors and walls). Part F: Ventilation Ensures adequate ventilation for health and comfort. Covers mechanical ventilation systems, natural ventilation, and air quality. Part G: Sanitation, Hot Water Safety, and Water Efficiency Provides guidance on toilets, bathrooms, hot water systems, and water-saving measures. Part H: Drainage and Waste Disposal Covers systems for drainage, sewage, waste disposal, and rainwater management. Part J: Combustion Appliances and Fuel Storage Systems Deals with the safety of heating appliances (e.g., boilers, wood burners) and associated fuel storage systems. Part K: Protection from Falling, Collision, and Impact Ensures buildings minimize risks of falling or injury (e.g., guidance on stairs, balustrades, and glazing). Part L: Conservation of Fuel and Power Focuses on energy efficiency in buildings. Covers insulation, heating systems, lighting, and renewable energy technologies. Part M: Access to and Use of Buildings Ensures buildings are accessible and usable by everyone, including disabled people. Covers entrances, lifts, ramps, door widths, and sanitary facilities. Part P: Electrical Safety Provides guidance on safe electrical installations in dwellings. Part Q: Security in Dwellings Ensures dwellings are designed to resist unauthorized access (e.g., secure doors and windows). Part R: Physical Infrastructure for High-Speed Electronic Communications Networks Ensures buildings are equipped to support high-speed broadband and digital connectivity. Part S: Infrastructure for the Charging of Electric Vehicles (Introduced in June 2022) Provides guidance on installing electric vehicle charging points in residential and non-residential buildings. Part 7: Materials and Workmanship Ensures buildings are constructed using appropriate materials and workmanship standards."

Answer 14

gas suppresion, as water could cause an electrical fire

Answer 15

"accidentaal discharge flase alarms delay in activation "

Answer 16

strip, pad , raft, piled

Answer 17

"Type A: Barrier Protection (Tanked System) Type A waterproofing involves the application of a barrier to prevent water from entering the basement. This method relies entirely on the waterproofing material to resist water ingress. Key Features: A physical barrier is applied externally, internally, or sandwiched within the construction (e.g., between concrete layers). Suitable for basements where external water pressure is present (e.g., groundwater). Common Materials: Cementitious coatings: Applied directly to walls and floors to create a watertight layer. Bituminous membranes: Used externally to create a waterproof barrier. Liquid-applied membranes: Flexible coatings applied to surfaces. Sheet membranes: Prefabricated waterproof sheets. Advantages: Creates a complete watertight seal. Effective for areas with high hydrostatic pressure (e.g., groundwater). Disadvantages: If damaged, repairs can be invasive and difficult, especially for external systems. Requires expert design and installation to ensure effectiveness. Applications: Basements below the water table where groundwater ingress is expected. Structures requiring high levels of waterproofing integrity. 2. Type B: Structurally Integral Protection Type B waterproofing relies on the structure itself (e.g., reinforced concrete) to resist water ingress, with the concrete designed to be watertight. Key Features: The concrete is made dense and impermeable using additives or special construction techniques. No additional membrane or coating is required; the structure itself forms the waterproofing system. Common Methods: Waterproof concrete: Uses admixtures (e.g., crystalline waterproofing agents) to reduce permeability. Joint sealing systems: Prevents water ingress at construction joints (e.g., water bars or hydrophilic strips). High-quality reinforced concrete: Designed to resist cracking and water penetration. Advantages: Low maintenance, as the structure itself provides protection. Durable and long-lasting. Reduces reliance on external membranes or coatings. Disadvantages: Requires precise design and construction to ensure structural integrity and waterproofing. Vulnerable at construction joints if not properly sealed. Applications: Basements requiring moderate protection against water ingress. Structures with minimal groundwater pressure. 3. Type C: Drained Protection (Cavity Drain System) Type C waterproofing involves the use of a drainage system to manage water ingress by collecting and redirecting it away from the basement. Key Features: Water is allowed to enter the structure but is managed through drainage channels and sump pumps. A cavity drain membrane is installed on the walls and floors to create a void for water to flow into the drainage system. Common Components: Cavity drain membranes: Plastic studded membranes fixed to walls and floors to create air gaps for water movement. Drainage channels: Installed at the base of walls to collect water. Sump pumps: Used to remove water from the basement. Advantages: Effective even if the structure itself is not watertight. Easier to repair and maintain compared to Type A systems. Provides a secondary layer of protection. Disadvantages: Requires ongoing maintenance of pumps and drainage systems. Relies on mechanical systems, which can fail during power outages. Applications: Basements in areas with low to moderate groundwater pressure. Retrofitting existing basements where external waterproofing is impractical."

Answer 18

The Building Act 1984 is the primary legislation governing Building Regulations, providing the legal framework for ensuring that building work meets health, safety, accessibility, and sustainability standards. The Act empowers the creation, enforcement, and updating of Building Regulations to adapt to evolving industry practices and societal needs.