Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book addresses human factors versus “cutting edge” technologies in the pursuit of fire safety in high-rise buildings. It presents issues involving the need for more consideration of occupant behavior and training of building staff, and holds up New York City’s Local Law Number 5, as a baseline for the regulation of occupant organizational changes required for elevator use. The primary safety requirement during fire emergencies is rapid and safe exiting from the heat, smoke, and toxic gases that create the threatening hostile environment. Historically, analysis and design methods for exiting during fire emergencies have followed minimum building code standards. The subject of safe evacuation from fires deserves first and foremost attention from fire protection professionals and others responsible for the design, regulation, and enforcement of such measures.