Types of Building Construction
What type of construction provides the highest level of fire resistance and structural stability?
Type I (Fire-Resistive)
What material is commonly used for fire-resistant floor and ceiling assemblies?
Concrete or gypsum board.
What is one major challenge basements present during firefighting operations?
Limited access and potential for rapid fire spread due to confined spaces.
What are the three main roof shapes in building construction?
Flat, pitched, and arched.
Which type of door is commonly used in stairwells to maintain fire separation?
Swinging fire door.
Which construction type uses noncombustible materials but has lower fire resistance than Type I?
Type II (Noncombustible)
Why are void spaces between floors and ceilings a fire concern?
They allow fire and smoke to spread undetected.
What type of stairs are enclosed with fire-rated materials to limit fire spread?
Protected stairs.
Why are lightweight truss systems a safety concern for firefighters?
They are prone to early collapse when exposed to fire.
How do overhead rolling steel fire doors operate during a fire?
They close automatically when a fusible link melts or when activated by an alarm system.
What is a defining characteristic of Type IV (Heavy Timber) construction?
Use of large, heavy wooden beams that resist fire longer than lightweight materials.
What is the primary purpose of fire walls in a building?
To prevent the spread of fire between different sections of a building.
How do unprotected stairs contribute to fire behavior?
They act as a flow path, allowing fire and smoke to travel between floors.
What is one risk of unapproved roof modifications?
They can compromise structural integrity and firefighter safety.
What is a disadvantage of sliding fire doors in emergencies?
They cannot be part of a required means of egress.
Which construction type is most common for residential homes and is highly combustible?
Type V (Wood Frame)
What feature of fire walls makes them difficult to penetrate for escape or entry?
Their fire-resistance rating and protected openings like fire-rated doors and windows.
What safety feature is often added to stairwells in high-rise buildings?
Pressurization systems to prevent smoke infiltration.
How can roof openings assist in fire suppression?
They provide ventilation to release heat and smoke from the structure.
What type of window is fixed and does not open?
Fixed window.
What is one of the most important indicators of potential structural collapse in a burning building?
Lightweight construction components like truss systems.
How can unprotected penetrations in fire walls affect fire behavior?
They allow heat, smoke, and flames to pass through and compromise the wall’s effectiveness.
Why must firefighters control doors leading to stairwells during a fire?
To maintain stairwell integrity and prevent smoke spread.
What type of specialized roof is designed to support plant growth?
Green roof.
Why are security windows a concern for firefighting operations?
They can delay entry and rescue efforts due to reinforced materials and locking mechanisms.