Podium Construction and Fire Protection

Podium construction has gained popularity in recent years as a cost-effective and efficient method for constructing multi-story buildings. This construction technique combines different materials and designs to create a unique structure, often featuring a concrete or steel podium at the lower levels, with lighter materials used for the upper floors. While podium construction offers numerous benefits, it is important to understand its implications for fire protection. This article explores the relationship between podium construction and fire sprinkler systems, highlighting some key considerations and strategies for enhanced fire protection in podium-style buildings.

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The Evolution of Fire Protection Systems

Much like the evolution of mankind, fire protection systems continue to evolve and provide higher levels of protection. We cannot expect systems, installed decades before, to perform and provide the same level of protection we have become reliant upon in modern construction. We see examples of these tragic fires every day across the United States. They are largely preventable with fire sprinkler retrofits. This is not to say that decade old buildings should meet all the new requirements for fire protection, but at some point they need to be retrofitted with some of the newer features we have developed over time.