Compartmentation Surveys: What They Are and Why Your Building Needs One

Compartmentation is the backbone of passive fire protection. Surveys identify breaches that could allow fire to spread between compartments.. What is Compartmentation? Compartmentation divides buildings into fire resistant cells. Walls, floors, and ceilings provide timed fire resistance (30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes) to: Contain fire spread Protect escape routes Support the stay put strategy Limit fire size for firefighting Why Surveys Are Needed Service installations create penetrations over time Previous works may have damaged fire barriers Original construction may have defects Building modifications change fire separation BSA 2022 requires ongoing assessment Survey Methodology 1. Desktop review of building drawings 2. Physical inspection of fire barriers 3. Invasive inspection of concealed spaces 4. Photographic recording of defects 5. Prioritised remediation schedule 6. Competent contractor recommendations For compartmentation surveys, contact us.