Document No. :: IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.

0
Final Report :: C - Fire Codes
IITK-GSDMA Project on Building Codes

Comments on NBC
(Part 4: Fire and Life Safety)

by

G.B.Menon
Fire Adviser, Govt. of India {Retd.} Cochin

Ex-Chairman CED-22 Fire Fighting Sectional Committee

Bureau of Indian Standards.

J.N.Vakil
Asst.General Manager{Retd},TAC/GIC,Ahmedabad

Ex-Chairman CED-36 Fire Safety Sectional Committee

Bureau of Indian Standards.
• This document has been developed under the project on Building
Codes sponsored by Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority,
Gandhinagar at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur.
• The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and not
necessarily of the GSDMA, the World Bank, IIT Kanpur, or the Bureau
of Indian Standards.
• Comments and feedbacks may please be forwarded to:
Prof. Sudhir K Jain, Dept. of Civil Engineering, IIT Kanpur, Kanpur
208016, email: nicee@iitk.ac.in
 Communications with
Bureau of Indian standards
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Comments on NBC Part 4 (Part A)

Comments on Draft NBC
(Part 4: Fire and Life Safety)
(As forwarded to BIS on 24 September, 2003)

Contents (i) The division of the text into sections like FIRE
PREVENTION and LIFE SAFETY as attempted in
the draft code is not rational and sustainable, as
explained later under FOREWORD.
(ii) A section on REFERENCES (as given in earlier
Revision 07 September 1997) has to be added.
(iii) List of standards on pages 134-140 should be given a
new heading Annex. F
(iv) Contents page will have to be revised as under:
Foreword
1. Scope
2. References
3. Terminology
4. Classification of buildings based on occupancy
5. Fire zones
6. Types of constructions
7. General requirements of all individual occupancies
8. Means of exit requirements (general)
9. Fire protection requirements (general)
10. Occupancy wise requirements
Annex. A – Calorific values of common materials and
typical values of load densities
Annex B. – Fire hazard classification of industrial and
non-industrial occupancies
Annex C. – Fire protection requirements for high rise
buildings (15 m or above in height)
Annex. D – Considerations for venting in industrial
buildings
Annex E. – Guidelines for drill and evacuation
procedures for high-rise buildings
Annex F. – List of standards
Foreword Halon Alternative Steering Committee CED 22P may be
approached for updating the Halon alternative
portion of the foreword.
Fire Prevention and Life Safety form integrated and
inter-related components of building design and
construction which cannot be segregated into
different classifications or divisions.
To bring subjects like Classification of Buildings, Fire

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 3
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Zones, Types of Construction and even General

Requirements for all individual occupancies under
the heading Fire Prevention is not rational.
Items 3.1 3.2 3.3 and 3.4 of draft standard are therefore
suggested to be given separate Section no’s 4,5,6,
and 7 and Section on life safety is suggested to be
renamed Means of Exit Requirements (general) in
the suggestions under heading CONTENTS above
Main Clause and Sub clause numbers would need to be
amended accordingly if above suggestion is
accepted.
Page4-b) 1) Idea of creating a sub division A6 for Starred Hotels
should be dropped.
Page4-b) 2) Heritage and Archaeological monuments, because of
their national/international importance and their
irreplaceable high value of the structures and
contents deserve to be considered as a separate
occupancy class by themselves under group K.
Page4-b) 3) Add word (stations) after word (Railway).
After scope Add-2 References - Pl refer Indian standards listed at
Annex F
2.1 note Add word (points) after word (call)
2.2 Replace word (or) by word (and) in 3rd line.
2.6 note Delete word (due) in 1st line.
2.18 Delete words (criteria of)
2.20 Delete words (or any access) in 3rd line.
5th line- Replace word (of) by word (on)
2.21 4th line Add word (the) between words (and) and (like).
2.24 Word (on) in the 2nd line should be replaced by word
(of)
2.26 Word (levelling) in the 2nd line should be replaced by
word (level in).
2.28 2nd line Start a separate sentence from word (for).
2.32 1st line Delete words (but acceptable only)
2.35 1st line Correct the spelling of (travelled)
2.39 2nd line Add word (of not less than 100mm internal diameter)
between words (mains) and (with).
2.39- Note Replace word 4(2) by word Annex F (2)
3 This should read (CLASSIFICATION OF BUILDINGS
BASED ON OCCUPANCY) and 3 should be amended as
4 (ref- contents)
3.1.1 Include new group K - Heritage and Archaeological
monuments
Note below 3.1.1 should be deleted. Instead following 2
notes should be added.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 4
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Note 1: In the case of Industrial/ Non industrial

complexes, where a number of buildings are
located, the individual requirement of each building
shall be governed by its own occupancy
classification as given above.
Note 2: The requirement of fire fighting installations as
given in Table 23 shall however, not be applicable in
the case of industrial/ non- industrial complexes,
which, shall be governed by respective Indian
Standards.
3.1.2a) Add word (or cooking) between words (dining) and
(facilities).
Delete words (but without cooking facility)
3.1.2f) Delete
3.1.3 1st line Insert (any other training institute) after (college.)
Page 12 sub- Delete words (elevated or underground).
division D6
Page 13 1st line Add word (etc) between words (equipment) and (and).
3.1.5(c) last line Delete words (and heritage and archaeological
monuments)
3.1.6 2nd line Reference to 3.1.1 is incorrect.
Delete words - (and part of buildings covered by 3.1.1)
3.1.7 1st line Delete words (or part of a building).
3.1.8 para3 After sub division G3- Add words (determined on the
basis of) between words (be) and (the) in the 1st line.
Page 15 Replace word (re:) in place of word (including).
paragraph 1
3.1.9 Add word (highly) between words (involve) and
(combustible) in 3rd line.
3.1.9 last line Replace word (used) in place of (issued)
3.1.10 Replace word (on) in place of (for) in 4th line and
complete the sentence with word (processing)
Start the next sentence with words (These include)
Delete words (For the storage, handling and processing
of any) in the 7th line.
3.1.10c) Place words (other than liquids) in brackets.
3.1.13 last line Replace word (old) in place of (new)
3.1.14 2nd line Add word (structural) before word (character) to make it
more specific.
3.2 Fire Zones This should be a separate section (section 5)
3.2.1 2nd line Add word (and life) after word (fire)
3.2.2.2.3 Add word (high) between words (having) and (hazard)
in 1st line.
Word (used) in 2nd line should read (uses).
3.2.4.1 and 3.2.4.2 These can occur only in theory. Can be deleted.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 5
 Comments on Draft NBC4

3.2.5.1 Delete word (and) in 3rd line.

3.2.5.3 2nd line Replace word 4(3) by word Annexe F (3)
3.2.7 para2 Add word (or) between words (cubicles) and
(partitioning) in 4th line.
3.3 This should be a separate section (section 6)
3.3.2 Replace word (by) with word (using) in 4th line.
Table1 Col2 Word (bearing) should read (load bearing) and word
(non-bearing) should read (non- load bearing.) under
S.No.1 at all three places.
Table1 SNo.9 Col2 Word (bearing walls, bearing partitions) should read
(load bearing walls, partitions)
Table1 SNo.2 Col3 Replace word (to) by word (from) at all 3 places.
Table2 and Differentiation in fire resistance between wall with
Table3. plaster and one without plaster should be removed
unless proved otherwise by laboratory tests.
Table5 Col 3 Heading should read Minimum thickness (mm) of
protection for a fire resistance up to 1 hr.
Also delete cols for 1.5 hrs and 2 hrs.
Table7 Col- 2 Heading should read Minimum thickness (mm) of
protection for a fire resistance up to 1 hr.
Also delete cols for 1.5 hrs, 2 hrs, 3hrs and 4 hrs.
Table 8 Items 1 to 7 should be removed unless proved otherwise
by laboratory tests. Wood straw etc are never known to
give 4 hrs fire resistance.
Tables 12 /13 Heading should read (Reinforced Concrete Floors)
Table 14 and 2 hrs 3hrs and 4 hrs fire resistance figures for items 1,2
Table 15 and 3 should be deleted unless proved otherwise by
laboratory tests. Asbestos insulating boards,
plasterboards and gypsum plaster are never known to
give 4 hrs fire resistance.
3.3.3 Delete words (along with suppression system). Instead
add (as given in Tables 14 and 15)
3.4 This should be a separate section (section 7)
3.4.2 7.1to7.9 in 2nd line should read 6.1to6.9.
3.4.2 3rd line Replace word (reasonable) by word (minimum)
3.4.2 4th line Add at the end (in exceptional cases).
3.4.4 Add a new Para
For fire protection requirements of high-rise buildings,
Annexe C may be referred.
Page 35 Note4d This should read
Staircase room and lift rooms above the topmost storey;
architectural features, chimneys and elevated tanks of
dimensions as permissible under the code. The area of
the lift shaft shall be taken only for one floor.
3.4.8.2 Reconcile with values given in table 1(8)-2 hr should

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 6
 Comments on Draft NBC4

read 1 hr.
3.4.8.3 5th line Add word (of) between words (resistance) and (not)

3.4.9 Word (the) in the third line should be replaced by words

(an internal).
3.4.11.5 Note below table 1st line-Word (and) is required between
(smoke) and (fumes)
3.4.12.4 Word (susceptible to) in 2nd line should be replaced by
words (available for.)
3.4.12.5 Word (may) in first line should be replaced by word
(shall).
3.4.14 Replace word (effect) by word (affect)
3.4.15.1 2nd sentence should be reworded as follows:
Such finishes tend to spread the fire and serious danger
to life may result even though the structural elements
may be adequately fire resistant. It is therefore essential
to take adequate precautions to minimise spread of
flame on such walls, façade of building and ceiling
surfaces.
3.14.5.3 This should be renumbered 3.4.15.3
3.4.15.4 4th line- Ref to 3.4.14.3 should be changed to 3.4.15.3.
Word (types) in 5th line should be replaced by word
(materials)
3.4.16.1 3.4.15.2 and 3.4.15.3 in 2nd line should read 3.4.16.2 and
3.4.16.3.
3.4.16.5 2nd line Reference to 3.4.15.2 and 3.4.15.3 should read 3.4.16.2
and 3.4.16.3.
3.4.17.1(b) Word (included) in last line should be replaced by word
(permitted)
4 Heading should read (Requirements for means of Exit)
4.1 Add at the end:
The term Exit implies a means of escape or exit used for
evacuation of occupants in case of fire or any other
emergency.
4.2 Word (exist) should be replaced by word (exit)
4.2.2 Add words (normally) between words (not) and (be)
4.2.7 4th line Add words (accordance with) between words (in) and
(good).
Table 20 - Col 3 iv) Assembly (D) a)
0.6 (see Note 1) should read 0.6 (see note 2)
Table 20 Note1 third line-75 m2 should read 0.75 m2.
Table 21 In heading, add reference to clause 4.4.1 also
Table22 Travel distance for educational occupancies of types 3
and 4 construction should be reduced from 22.5m to
15m.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 7
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Note2- 1st line-words (will reckon) should read (shall be)

Last line should read –construction of types 3 and 4 is
not permitted for basements.
4.6.1 Reference to 7.1 to 7.9 should read as 6.1 to 6.9.
4.6.2 Add after 1st sentence:
For areas exceeding 2000 m2, for every additional 1500
m2 area, an additional staircase shall be provided.
4.7.3 line3 Start a separate sentence with word (Overhead)
4.7.4 1st line Start a separate sentence with word (A landing)
4.7.4 line2 Start a separate sentence with word (The level)
4.9.1 Add (Inclination of stairs should not exceed 60 degrees
to the horizontal.)
4.9.10 f) Word (lift) in 2nd line should read (lifts)
4.9.10 m) Second sentence should read: (The second staircase
leading to basement level should be separated at ground
level………enclosures.)
4.10.3 table Heading under column 3 should read: Emergency
operation (stage 2 of 2-stage system or single stage
system)
4.11 Add word (with) after word (comply)
4.12.3 1st line- Word (sprinkled) should read (sprinklered)
2nd sentence (The refuge area…railings) Should be
shifted below b)
4.12.3b) Add word (additional) between words (one) and
(refuge)
4.12.3b) Note Word (sprinkled) should read (sprinklered)
4.13.1 1st line Delete words (except buildings)
4.14.1 7.1-7.9 should read 6.1-6.9.
4.14.2 This should be amended to read:
The slope of a ramp shall not exceed 1 in 12. (Delete 2nd
sentence)
4.14.3 Delete words (and wherever use is such as to involve
danger of slipping.).
Word (non-slipping) should read (non-slippery).
4.15.1 1st sentence should read as follows:
Where applicable fully automated fire lifts, having
minimum capacity of 8 passengers, with emergency
switch on ground floor shall be provided
4.16.2 4th line Add words ‘lux’ after 0.025
4.17a) 2nd line Word (as) should read (that).
4.18 Fire detection and warning should come under Fire
Protection Requirements (General), New Section 9
4.18 1st line Word (that) should read (where).
4.18 last line Word ‘to’ should be deleted.
4.18.2 This sub clause should be shifted below section 6

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 8
 Comments on Draft NBC4

preferably as the 1st paragraph

General Add a new clause:
Periodical inspection and maintenance of lifts and
escalators shall be carried out every 6 months.
Repairs of the faults if any must be carried out in 24 hrs.
5 This should read: (FIRE PROTECTION
REQUIREMENTS: GENERAL)
5.1.1 Line1 - Add words (FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY
HAZARDS) between word (use) and word (and).
5.1.1 3rd line Word (system) should read (systems).
5.1.2 Reference to 4(18) is not correct. It should be 4 (19)
Fig1 below 5.1.2 Non return valve should be shown on source (tank) side
of sluice valve to facilitate its maintenance
Fig2 below 5.1.2 Non return valves should be shown on source (pump)
side of sluice valves to facilitate their maintenance
Table 23 Tables 23 and 24 should go under section OCCUPANCY
WISE REQUIREMENTS at the beginning of the section
with an introductory clause.
Fire extinguishers requirements under column 3 may be
deleted as this provision has already been mentioned
under 5.1.2.
Requirement of sprinkler systems for basements of area
exceeding 200 sq. m for (A) (a) (1) and (b) (1) appear
too stringent and unrealistic and hence may be
deleted.
A (a) 1 (i) – Terrace tank of 5000 litres (that too without a
pump) is unnecessary and may be deleted.
A (a) 1 (ii) – Column 15 – the pump capacity for terrace
tank should be 450 l p.m.
In the whole table except in two instances, E (1) and F
(A) 1 (ii) dry risers are shown as NR (not required).
In these cases wet risers may be provided, and in the
table, column 5 may be deleted.
A (b) (3)& (4) – column 15 for terrace pump shows NR –
This is wrong and has to be corrected as- 450 (900) -
see note 4)- in both cases
A (c) (1) (ii) – yard hydrants are required.
NR entries under column 15 on page 58 should be
corrected as 450 (900) for Terrace Tanks up to 5000 L
capacity and 900 for tank capacities exceeding 5000
L, so as to allow ready use of hose reels, wet risers
etc., before the main pump over the U/G tank can
start
A (c) (1) (iii) column 13 – Terrace tank capacity is
wrongly shown as 100,000. It may be corrected to
10,000.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 9
 Comments on Draft NBC4

A (c) (1) (iii)-Reference to Note 11 should be deleted

under columns 9 and 11
A (d) – Starred hotels – may be deleted
B 1 (i) – requirements are not necessary under columns 9,
13 and 15 when all other columns are showing NR
C (a) 1 (ii) – yard hydrants are required
C (a) 1 (iv) – terrace tank pump of 450 (900) is required.
For C (a) (2) and (3)- terrace tank pump of 900 is
required
C (b) 1 may be deleted.
Requirements of C (b) 2 may be made applicable to all
buildings up to 15 m in height. In column 15, terrace
tank pump of 450 (900) is required
(D) There is no need to show requirements separately for
below 10 m and between 10m and 15 m.
(D) 1) may be deleted.
Requirements of (D) 2) may be made applicable to all
buildings up to 15m in height. NR indicated against
column 15 should be corrected to 450(900).
(E) There is no need to show requirements separately for
below 10 m and between 10m and 15 m.
(E) 1)– may be deleted.
Requirements of (E) 2) may be made applicable to all
buildings up to 15m in height. NR indicated against
column 15 should be corrected to 450(900).
F (a) 1 (i), (ii), (iii) & 2 – Wet risers (column 6) should be
provided. Same remarks hold good for automatic
fire alarm system also
For F (a) 1(i) and F a) 1(iii), Terrace tank pump of
450(900) is required.
For F (a) 1(ii), F (a) 2, and Fa) 3,Terrace tank pump of 900
is required.
G (a) 1 (iv) – Yard hydrants col (8) and U/G tank col (12)
of not less than 20,000 litres are required.
Capacities of underground storage tanks (col12) and that
of fire pump col (14) need to be revised upwards in
case of following.
Ga) 1(v)- 1620 LPM and 100,000 litres.
Gb) 1(ii), (iii) and (iv) and H1 (i), (ii) and 3)- 2250LPM
and 270,000 litres.
(G) c)1) (ii)(iii)(iv)and(v)and J1(i)and(ii)-2820LPm and
675,000 litres.
G (b) 1 (ii) – Yard hydrants col (8) and terrace tank pump
col (15) of 450 are required
G (b) 1(iii) & (iv) – Terrace tank pumps of 450 are to be
provided under col (15)

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 10
 Comments on Draft NBC4

G (c) 1 (ii) & (iii) – Wet risers should be provided

G (c) 1 (iv) & (v) – Terrace tanks of 10000 and pumps of
900 should be provided
H 1 (ii) & (iii) – Manual fire alarm call points should be
provided
H1 (i) (ii) and (iii)– Under column 15 terrace tank pumps
of 900 are required.
1(i)-Terrace tank of 25000 col (13) and terrace tank pump
of 900 col (15) is required.
Notes below It is better to give height restrictions under each
(Table 23) occupancy classification and not at the end.
5.1.6 3rd line- Replace word (mains) by word (means.)
Page66 Fig3A Fire pumps having negative suction are not to be
preferred .In any case those with two suction pipes
taking suctions from two different compartments
should never be allowed, as they can always create
suction problems due to air locks.
Domestic pump with its suction pipe should also be
shown in the figure to bring out clearly how the
reservation of firewater is to be achieved.
5.1.7 Automatic Note1 should be shifted at top of the clause.
spks 2nd paragraph should start as follows:
In any case automatic sprinklers shall be installed in:
Table 24 Size of the rising mains /risers need be only 100 mm
with single outlet in case of 1(v).
The entire table 24 except 1(v) 14 and 15 should come
under Annex C for High-rise buildings.
Table 24 Col2 1) Residential buildings (A)
Sub items ii and iii should be interchanged to match
with group definitions given elsewhere:
ii) One or two family private dwellings
iii) Dormitories
Items 8 and 9 should read as follows:
8) All buildings classified under 1)(A)(i) to (iv)
9) All buildings classified under 1)(A)(V) above with
shopping area exceeding 500 m2.
Add word (are) between words (height) and (Not) in
note below the table.
Table 24, Col 3 One or two family private dwellings – height should be
restricted to 15 m in line with note 1 below table 23
5.1.10 para1 Replace words (some other identified substitutes) by
words (Halon substitutes.)
2 line-Reference to 4(22) may need a change. IS:
nd

6382:1984 is now being superseded by a new

standard for co2 systems
5.2 Line1- Replace word (that) by word (where).

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 11
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Line4- Word ‘to’ to be deleted.

5.2.1 4th line Add word (analogue) after word (addressable,).

5.3 Standards for fire extinguishers mentioned in 4(23) are

yet to be published.
6-occupancywise 4.18.2 should be brought under this.
requirements. Also Tables 23 and 24 should be brought under this as
they pertain to occupancy wise requirements of fire
protection measures.
6.1.3.2 Para1-Delete words (and not more than one of which
may be a window).
This applies to A4 occupancies also. (Please refer 6.1.3.4).
Are we expecting people to jump from upper floor
windows?
Last line- Replace word (chairs) by word (stairs)
6.1.3.2 a) 4th line- Replace word (may) by word (can)
6.1.3.3 Line 1 – Delete (except those mentioned in 6.1.3.5)
6.1.3.5 deals with (hotels) and not (dormitories).
6.1.3.4 c) Line 1- Delete words (Any building not more than two
stories in height with no basement or), because this
contradicts with the last sentence, which talks about
(basements containing heating plants or group
storage).
Keep following words within brackets for better
understanding:
(Excluding driveways, not more than 10 % of
perimeter.)
6.1.3.6.3 4 line-Delete word (or) and start a separate sentence
th

from word s (In case of)

6.1.4.5 2nd line Replace word (lightening) by word (lightning)
6.1.4.7 Line 1- Add words (or transformers) between word
(boiler) and word (room).
Line 4- Add word (of 4 hrs fire resistance) after word
(wall).
Reference to 3.4.7 should be changed to 3.4.8
6.1.4.9 Line 1- Replace word (additions) by word (addition)
6.2.4.2 Add- The no shall be reduced from 45 to 30 where young
children are involved.
6.2.4.3 1st line This is seldom complied with. Hence may be dropped.
6.2.5.3 3rd line Replace word (fire assembly) by word (fire-resistant
assembly/fire stop.)
6.2.6.1 and 6.2.6.2 Add- It will be desirable to render the timber/plywood
components fire resistant by a recognised method.
6.2.6.3 1st line- Replace word (only the first floor) by words
(only the ground floor.)

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 12
 Comments on Draft NBC4

3rd line- Replace word (exceptions) by words

(exceptional requirements)
6.3.3.3 Shift words (including patient bedroom doors) to line1
between words (exit) and (that).
6.3.3.4 2ndline- Replace words (which have) with word (with).
6.3.3.5 Line 2- Replace words (resistance) with word (resistant).
End the sentence at word (walls) and start a new
sentence with words (The Authority)
Replace words (a lesser) with word (more).
6.3.3.6 3rd line Replace words (1500mm) with word (2000mm) in line
with 6.3.3.3*
6.3.4.2 1st sentence should read:
Bare minimum quantities of flammable materials such as
chloroform, ethyl alcohol, spirit, etc shall be allowed to
be stored and handled Also Word (other) in 4th line
should be replaced by word (relevant).
6.3.5 It will be desirable to include requirement re: panic
release hardware. The provisions under clause 6.2.4.3,
which was recommended to be dropped, may be
incorporated as a new paragraph under this.
6.4.4.1 3rd line- Replace words (therefore) with word (thereof)
6.4.4.1.1 1st line- Replace words (four) with word (six)
6.4.4.1.2 1st line- Replace words (two) with word (three)
3rd line- Replace words (three) with word (four)
6.4.4.3 2nd line- Replace words (650mm) with word (1000mm) in
line with j 4.11.9.
3rd line- Replace words (750mm) with word (1100mm)
4th line- Replace words (900mm) with word (1200mm)
Add- Balusters should not have gap of more than
150mm.
6.4.6.2 Add word (like) between words (enclosures,) and word
(boxes)
6.4.6.3.1 and These may be deleted. Details are already covered under
6.4.6.3.2 6.4.4.2.
6.4.6.7 4th line- End the sentence at word (workshops) and Start
a new sentence with words (The proscenium)
6.4.6.10 This may be deleted- Nowadays Nitro-cellulose films are
not being used.
6.4.6.11 3rd line- Word (31/3) should read (3.5)
4th line- Delete words (sum of).
6.4.7.1 Copy here 6.1.4.7
6.4.7.4 This may be deleted as it sends a wrong signal to safety
conscious people.
6.5.1 3rd line Ref to 6.6.5 should read (6.5.5)
6.5.2 Add words (6.5.2.1 to 6.5.2.5) between words (in) and

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 13
 Comments on Draft NBC4

word (Table 23). Also add at the end of paragraph 6.5.2 –

(wherever applicable. In addition, the requirements
specified under 6.5.2.1 to 6.5.2.5 shall also be complied
with.
6.5.2.2b) This should read (Solvent storage and/or flammable
liquid storage.)
6.5.2.3 Delete (b). The present (c) and (d) should be corrected as
(b) and (c).
Also proposed (b) should read as follows
Sprinklers below false ceilings exceeding800mm and
below false floor.
The recommendation for a and b should be the same..
6.5.2.4 The reference to sprinkler system may be deleted.
6.5.2.5 Col2 of table
Insert word (automatic) between words (and) and
(sprinkler). Add at the end – if required by the
Authority.
6.5.3 Add- (Following requirements shall be complied with in
addition to those given under section 4.
6.5.4.2 Copy here 6.1.4.7
6.5.5.1 Insert word (or) between words (heating) and (any)
6.6.4.2 Insert word (by sprinkler installation) at the end of the
sentence.
6.7.2 Add words (shall apply) at the end.
6.7.3.3.3 Copy here 6.1.4.7
6.7.3.4.1 Word (and) between words (heating) and (other) should
be replaced by word (or)
6.7.3.4.3b) 5th line- Insert word (are) between words (or) and
(suitably)
6.8.3.3a) 4th line – Replace words ‘have been’ by ‘are’
6.8.3.3c) 2nd sentence should end with words (nearest exit.)
Third sentence may start as follows
(The distance may be increased to 45m in the case of
garages… travel.)
6.8.3.3d) 2nd sentence should end with words (any of the types).
Start a separate sentence thereafter as follows:
(In a ramp type garage. ……Means of exit.)
6.8.3.3e) 1st sentence should end with words (same floor level.)
Second sentence may read as follows:
(The distance may be increased to 45m in the case of
garages… automatic sprinklers.)
6.8.3.3g) 2nd sentence should end with words (or downstairs.)
3rd sentence may read as follows:
(No upward travel shall at the rear than at the street)
6.8.5 This should be broken in 2 sentences.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 14
 Comments on Draft NBC4

1st sentence should read:

(Every area used for the storage of hazardous
commodities shall have an exit within 22.5m of any
point in the area where persons may be present.)
Second sentence may read as follows:
(The distance may be increased to 35m where automatic
sprinkler protection is provided.)
6.9.4b) Copy here 6.1.4.7
6.9.4c) 2nd line-word (or) should be shifted between words
(glow) and (flame)
3rd line – Word (Gasoline) should read (Flammable)
6.9.4d) 2nd line – Spelling of (shall) needs correction.
6.9.4f) 2nd line Delete words- (steam line or any other)
AnnexeB Heading should read-*
FIRE HAZARD CLASSIFICATION OF INDUSTRIAL
AND NON- INDUSTRIAL OCCUPANCIES.
Assembly buildings small should be shifted to group B2
on account of heavy life hazard involved
Similarly Educational and research institutes godowns
and warehouses and cinema theatres should be
placed in-group B2.
Mercantile occupancies (departmental stores, shopping
complex etc) have great fire hazards and hence
should come under B3
Museums archives record rooms and heritage structures
are high value occupancies of national/ international
importance and hence should be transferred to B3.
Oxygen plants have high fire hazards and hence should
go under B3
Similarly plastic goods mfg should go under B3.
Textile mills and Jute mills should be under same group
viz B3.
Grass, hay fodder and, bhoosa (chaff) - Add words
‘pressing works’ in the end.
Under B3, “type retreading” should read “Tyre
retreading”.
Include (underground power stations and underground
railway stations) under B3 Note below Annex B
Note below Words Jurisdictions and protections should read
Annex B jurisdiction and protection respectively.
Annex C-C0 Definition (15m in ht or above may be reviewed.)
C 1.1 Delete word (and) between words (stairways) and
(corridors) in 1st line.
Replace word (constructions) by word (construction)
C 1.2 2nd line Ref to 3.4.14.2 should read 3.4.15.2.
C 1.4 1st line Replace word (and) by word (with)

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 15
 Comments on Draft NBC4

C 1.4 last line Replace word (staircase) by words (staircase enclosure)

C 1.5a) 1st line Replace word (lift) by words (lift shaft)
C 1.5b) 2nd line Replace word (the) between words ‘of and ‘room’ by
word (that)
C 1.5-f) Delete words (For buildings 15m in ht or above). And
complete this sentence at word (lifts)
Next sentence should read: (They shall have solid
doors… at least 1 hr)
C 1.5g) (25 to 30 pa) in second line should read (15 pa) in line
with requirements elsewhere in the code.
Word (mechanically) in last line should read (manually)
C 1.5h) Delete word (the) in the 2nd line after word (of).
C 1.5n) Delete word (at any landing) in the 2nd line
C 1.5q) 1) Word (permitted) in3rd line should read (provided)
C 1.5q)iv) Delete word (fighting) after word (fire) In the 1sd line
C 1.5q)v) Word (trip) in 1st line should read (change)
C 1.5q)vi) Replace word (is) by word (should be) in 1st line.
Join last 2 sentences by word (when)
C 1.6.1 Delete word (or) in 3rd line.
Delete word (or) in 4th line.
Add word (will) after word (level)
C 1.6.2 5th line- word (stores) should read (storeys)
Complete the sentence at word (buildings.)
Next sentence should read: (it shall communicate…. 1hr
resistance)
C 1.6.3 Delete words (but each basement levels) in the 1st line
C 1.6.4 3rd line- Complete the sentence at (if installed).
Next sentence should read: (They shall have…standard
units)
C 1.6.4.1 Replace word (internal locking) by word (interlocking)
in 1st line.
C 1.6.4.2 Ref to 3.4.10.5 should read 3.4.11.5
C 1.6.4.4 2nd line - Complete the sentence at (as possible).
Next sentence should read: (When this duct. ……shall be
provided.)
C 1.6.5 2nd para 2nd line Word (sprinkled) should read (sprinklered.)
C 1.6.5 3rd para 2nd line- Word (if) should read (where.)
C 1.6.6 3rd line Word (`head) should read (heads.)
C 1.8 2nd line - Complete the sentence at (2 hr fire rating).
Next sentence should read: (For floors with …….50
percent.)
C 1.8.1 1st line-Word (on) should read (from.)
C 1.10 1st line-Word (or) should read (for.)
4th line- Complete the sentence at (air-conditioning
shafts).

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 16
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Next sentence should read: (Inspection panel. …possible

from exits.)
C 1.11 This clause should be amended as “Provisions contained
in 4.12.3 should apply for all high rise buildings more
than 24m in height”
C 1.12c) Add at the end (Such circuits should be protected at
origin by an automatic circuit breaker with its no- volt
coil removed.)
C-1.12f) Insert word (electrical) between words (ventilated) and
(service)
C 1.14a) 2nd line Replace word (as) by word (that)
C 1.14c) Delete word (and) at the end.
C 1.15 6th line- Word (standby) should read (main electrical.)
C 1.16a) 4th line- Word (from) should read (room.)
7th line- Add after words ‘rating’ – ‘on both sides of the
opening’
C 1.16c) 1st line- Words (in case) should read (where)
C 1.16f) 2nd line- Delete words (does not)
2nd line- Word (exceed) should read (exceeds).
6th line- Replace words (shall be of non combustible
construction and) with word (which)
C 1.17d)-2nd line Insert word (using) between words (of) and (space)
C 1.17g) 1st line- Words (area) should read (areas.)
C 1.17j)-2nd line Insert word ‘and’ between ‘separated’ and ‘in’
C 1.17k) This should read
If the air-handling units serve more than one floor, the
conditions given below shall be complied in addition
to the recommendations given above.
C 1.17k) 1) 2nd line- Insert word (principle) between words
(detector) and (for)
C 1.17r) 1st line- Replace words (fixed nearer than) by word
(stored within) and word (to) by word (of).
4 line- Delete word (and)
th

C 1.17s) 3) 2nd line- Insert words (shall be provided as follows for

non-ventilated lobbies/ corridors.) at the end.
Col 2 row 1 in table below-Delete words- (In non
ventilated lobbies/ corridors)
C 1.18 2nd line- Replace word (in) by word (for)
C 1.18c) Add at the end, ‘on both sides of the opening’
C 3.1.1 1st line Replace word-by-word (the).
C4 Replace word (lighting) by word (lightning) in the
heading as well as in 1st line.
C5 3rd line- Replace word (aid) by word (all).
5th line- Replace word (maintained) by word (displayed).
C 6.1 Add words (at all times) at the end.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 17
 Comments on Draft NBC4

C 6.2e) 1st line- Replace word (the) by word (all).

C 6.2 note 1st line- Replace word (have) by word (having).
C7 2nd line- Replace word (and/ or) by word (and).
C8 Replace word (action) by word (actions).
5th line- Replace word (lettering) by word (letters)
2nd paragraph 1st line- Replace word (for) by word (on)
D 2.1.5 3rd line- Delete word (approximately)
D 2.1.12 3rd line- Replace words (external walls) by word (roof).
D 2.1.19 3rd line- Replace words (birds) by word (brands).
D 2.2.2 2nd line- Delete word (the perimeter of)
Insert words (see D-2.2.5 below) after words (fire area)
D 2.3.1 2nd line- Replace words (until type) by words (unit type).
D 2.3.2 1st line Replace word (wire) by words (wired).
D 2.3.8 4th line- Replace word (caves) by words (eaves).
D 2 4.3 2nd line- Replace word (and) by word (or).
D 2.4.5 2nd line-Insert word (in) before word (order)
D 2 5.6 Delete both third and fourth sentences, as they are mere
repetition of D-2.1.17.
D 2 6.2 1st line- Replace word (may) by word (any).
D 3.1-3rd line Delete (Pressures developed by such explosion hazards)
which is redundant.
D 3.2.3 5th line- Delete word (and) between words (work) and
(into).
D 3.2.6 1st line- Replace words (so that) by word (therefore).
D 3.2.7 6th line- Delete word (and) between words (titanium)
and (zirconium)
D 3.3.2 1st line Replace word (or) by word (of).
D 3.3.4 1st line- Replace word (of) by word (or).
D 3.3.9 2nd line- Insert words (involved, it may be) between
words (may be) and word (desirable)
D 3.4.2 2nd line- Replace word (explosures) by word (exposures)
*
D 3.4.5 2nd line- Replace word (when) by word (if).
D 3.4.9 2nd line-Insert word (rise) between words (pressure) and
word (as)
D 3.4.13 5th line- Delete word (single strength) between words
(than) and (glass).
E 3.1 2nd line- Delete words (after the effective date of these
rules, or for new buildings during the first two years
after the issuance of the certificate of occupancy.)
E-5.1 Delete reference to c-8 it being irrelevant.
E 8.2.1 2nd line- Delete words (and of) between words (by) and
(its).
E 8.2.2 1st line- Delete word (and) at the end.
3rd line- Insert word (and) instead of word (the) between

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 18
 Comments on Draft NBC4

words (fire) and word (response)

3rd line- Replace word (and the) between words
(designated) and word (immediate) by (for)
4th line- add word (to) between words (and) and
(contain)
E 8.3to E 8.7 A preceding explanatory brief should be added to start
with.
E 8.5a) Delete word (are) at beginning.
E 8.7a) Delete word (submit) at beginning.
Replace ‘completed’ by ‘complete’
E 8.7b) Delete word (indicate) at beginning.
E 8.8 1st line- Replace word (of) by word (to) between words
(instructions) and (all).
E 9 Duties This should come under E8 only.
E 9.1.8 1st paragraph-Add words (the following )at the end
E 9.1.8b) Replace ‘meaning’ by ‘Manning’
E 9.1.8e) Shift words (in the operation) at the end of sentence.
E 9.2.1 Add- (and assist him in the discharge of his duties)
E 9.3.3f) 5) Remove the gap between line2 and line3.
E 9.3.5 1st line- Replace words (have available) by words
(prepare or keep ready)
6th line- Insert words (them to) between words (remove)
and word (the)
6th line- Replace word (resistance) by words (assistance)
E 9.3.10 2nd line- Replace word (civinity) by word (vicinity).
E 9.4.2 2nd line- Replace words (the direction and execution) by
words (to direct and execute).
E 9.5c) Insert words (by use of first aid fire fighting equipment
on the floor) between words (fire) and (until)
E 9.6 a) 2nd line- Replace word (when) by word (once).
3rd line- Replace word (commissioner) by word
(department)
E 9.7 Add- c) Provision shall also be made for the six monthly
inspection and testing of wet risers, landing valves, hose
reels, sprinkler system etc.
E 9.8d) Replace words (or duplicate attached) by words (or
attach duplicate).
E 9.8e) Add- No of storeys.
E 9.8m) and 9.8n) Replace words (Name of employee) by words (Name of
employee responsible).
E 9.8p) Insert words (its location) between words (any) and
(components)
E 9.8t) 4) Add word (etc) at the end.
E 9.8) y) Delete words (the proper) between words (and) and
(protection).

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 19
 Comments on Draft NBC4

E 9.10 4th line- Place words (Since under… Usable) into the
brackets.

Page 132 Item 2- remove gap between lines 2 and 3.

Item 3- Add Words (is at) at the end
Page133 Item 2- under (if you discover a fire)
Add words (if necessary) at the end
Item 1- under (if You hear evacuation instructions)
Replace words (North/south) by word (nearest).
Page 134 Add- Annex F in the heading.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 20
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Comments on NBC Part 4 (Part B)

Fresh Comments on Final Document NBC
(Part 4: Fire and Life Safety)
(As forwarded to BIS on 30 April 2005)

Ref. 2.13. Fire The portion now added at the end, viz., ‘having panic
Exit bar hardware provided on the door’, appears to be far
too stringent for universal compliance, though in some
occupancies like C-2, Custodial Institutions, C-3 Penal
and Mental Institutions, A-5 and A-6 Sub-division
Hotels etc., panic bar hardware can be insisted upon.
Moreover, this may be reconciled with the explanatory
material regarding ‘General Exit Requirements’
contained in 4.2.1, also.

Ref. 3.1.2. (a) The minimum number of persons, viz., 40, as in the
Subdivision A-5 earlier version, is necessary to be specified. Hence, the
Hotels clause may be suitably reworded to include, ‘for more
than 40 persons who are primarily transient’.

Ref. 3.4.8.3 The fire resistance requirements for inspection doors for
various types of service shafts have been differently
specified as 1 hour/ 2 hours under various clauses in the
Code. The requirements as given in 3.4.8.3., 4.9.5, and C-
1.9 have to be reconciled.

Ref. 3.4.12.3. While for normal operation, a minimum capacity of 12

air changes per hour may be adequate for smoke
exhaust equipment, under fire conditions, the equipment
must be capable of operating at a rate of 30 air changes
per hour, as specified under C-1.6.4.2. This requirement
existed in the earlier clause also, and is recommended
for inclusion.
Ref. Table 22, (i) In the final Draft, under Notes, there was a
Travel Distance Note specifying ‘half the value as prescribed in
table 22’ for basements- In the final document
this has been omitted. It is felt that considering
the adverse conditions prevailing in
basements for emergency exits, this stipulation
has to be there.
(ii) Similarly, in the final document, a fresh
requirement that ‘Ramps shall be protected
with automatic sprinkler system’ has been

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 21
 Comments on Draft NBC4

introduced. It is not understood as to how this

can be specified as a ‘thumb-rule’ requirement
in all cases. Hence, requires review and
amendment.

Ref. 4.9.5. and regarding permitting ducting in stairways- The contents

4.9.10 (f) in these two clauses are conflicting, and need
reconciliation.

Ref. 4.9.9 In the final Draft, there was a provision that ‘the gap
between two balusters shall not exceed 150 mm’. But in
the final document, this requirement does not find a
place. However, this provision has been included in
4.11.9, under 4.11. External Stairs. There had been some
tragic accidents where children had fallen down from
stairs through balusters with bigger gaps. Hence, it is
essential to retain this requirement for Internal Staircases
also.
The international practice is to provide central handrails
where the staircase width exceeds a certain limit (1800
mm in U.K.; 1500 mm in USA etc). The reason why
central handrails are necessary have been explained at
length under information Note No. L/F 4.4. In India also
there is an overwhelming requirement for provision of
central hand rails for all staircases and ramps exceeding
a width of 1500 mm. This requirement should be
included in the Code.

Ref. 4.15.2. In case of fire, any member of the fire service should be
in a position to operate the fire lift, not ‘Firemen’ alone.
In the earlier Draft also the words ‘fire service personnel’
were used. Further, even under 2.14. Fire Lift, the
definition clearly states as ‘The lift installed to enable fire
services personnel’. It is better to leave it like that, rather
than restrict the operation to the lowest rank in Fire
Service, viz; Firmen.

Ref. 5.1.7. (g) In the final Draft, installation of automatic sprinklers

was specified for all floors of buildings, if the height of
the building exceeded 30m’ But, in the finalized
document, this requirement has been made much more
stringent reducing the height of buildings to 15m (except
residential and educational buildings0. It is felt that
such stringent measures amount to impractical
proportions, and are difficult to implement.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 22
 Comments on Draft NBC4

Ref. 5.1.7. (m) Actually, sprinkler protection for false ceiling exceeding
800 mm in height, is required only in buildings which
are sprinklered. In unsprinklered buildings, such a
requirement is meaningless. Hence the original working
in the final Draft must be restored.

Ref. Note – 3 The present version is most confusing. For instance to

under 5.1.7 say, ‘where automatic sprinklers cannot be provided,
appropriate sprinklers / provisions shall be provided’
makes no sense. Hence this Note may be deleted.

Table 24 – On 2nd The size of the rising mains has to be increased to 150
Page mm (as in final Draft) so as to adequately cater to the
requirements of the type of occupancies referred to.

Ref. 6.4.8. Fire Protection and Fire fighting System for Metro
Stations.
(i) At the outset, it would have been more
appropriate if this item was published
as a Code of Practice, as is the normal
practice, and not finding a place in Part
4 Code itself. If a separate I S on Code
of Practice on the subject was ready, a
reference to the I S would have been
sufficient in the Code.
(ii) The fire protection / fire safety and life
safety requirements for underground
railway systems and elevated railway
systems are totally different and, hence,
separate I S will have to be formulated
for each of them.
(iii) The entire 6.4.8. Clause will have to be
suitably reworded using the usual Code
language. For instance to state (as given
in 6.4.8.2) ‘The internal hydrant is
proposed to be provided with 2 number
RRL hose pipes’….. etc. is more in line
with the wordings of a technical paper
or report, rather than in conformity
with the wordings of a BIS Code or I S.
There are several such editorial errors
throughout this new Clause.
(iv) To lay down the number of internal
hydrants, manual call boxes, and even
portable fire extinguishers for the

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 23
 Comments on Draft NBC4

concerned premises is quite contrary to

the normal practice and procedure
adopted in Code formulation.
(v) It is felt that, the best thing to be done
under the present circumstances is to be
withdrawal the portion (Clause 6.4.8.)
from the Code for the present, and
recast it as an independent IS.

Ref. C-1.6.3. Last sentence – It will be wrong to state that fire rating
may be taken as the required smoke extraction time for
smoke extraction ducts – Both are entirely independent
factors and have no bearing on each other.

Ref. C.1.6.5. Use of Basements – It will be desirable to include all the

permissible as well as non-permissible utilizations of
basements as spelt out in the earlier final draft.

Ref. C-1.17 (d) This is not practicable in all cases, and hence should be
suitably amended.

Ref. C-6.2. (a) The wording should be suitably amended like…..’ensure

that the fire-fighting equipment are maintained….’- In
this context, a reference to the last sentence under Clause
C-5 is also relevant.

Ref. E-9.6 (a) The designation, ‘Fire Commissioner’ is not prevalent in

Indian Fire Services. It is more in line with the
organizational structural pattern followed in U.S. Fire
Services.

Ref. E.9.7. (a) & It has to be specified as to who will be responsible for
(b) these requirements.

Ref. E – 9.8. (m) Pressure tank is generally a requirement for sprinkler

system, and not for standpipe system.

IITK-GSDMA-Fire02-V1.0 24