1.8 Existing layout and construction
In warehouses the design is open-plan with
large floor areas, e.g. large warehouse and
distribution centres typically exceed 2,000m2
and are often in excess of 20,000m2
. The floor
can be densely packed with stacked goods or
high-bay racking systems. Factories, too, are
often open-plan with designated process areas
and storage areas, which can be located in
separate rooms.
These buildings may include a number of open
grate mezzanine floors and gallery levels. Often
there are few windows and doors, except for
access and escape.
Traditionally, occupants are advised to shut
doors when escaping from a fire but in openplan areas this may not be possible. In these
areas the fire, and especially the smoke, may
spread faster than expected.
To assess the risk in your premises you need
to evaluate the construction and layout of your
building. This does not mean a structural
survey, unless you suspect that the structure
is damaged or any structural fire protection is
missing or damaged, but rather an informed