Fire Science Show

History repeats itself. A new thing is invented. We learn about it, understand it, and apply measures to capture its behaviour and regulate it. And then another new thing is invented. The measures we used start failing us, and the cycle repeats all over again.

It is not a story of fire safety; it is a story of humanity. Similar cycles can be observed in all aspects of technology. One could call them Innovation Blind Spots after Prof. Rein; in science, you could call them paradigm shifts after Prof. Kuhn. Regardless, these cycles are the frame we work in, and we need to learn to handle them.

In fire safety, they are often a cause of major disasters. In this podcast episode, I once again interview prof. Vincent Brannigan. Vincent has spent a large part of his career studying the limiting factors of innovation in fire science and its regulation.

This podcast is framed after a lecture Vincent delivered 15 years ago, which can be accessed here: https://www.fireseat.eng.ed.ac.uk/sites/fireseat.eng.ed.ac.uk/files/images/02-Brannigan.pdf

It is an engaging read, I recommend going through it after the podcast episode!

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Fire is a highly contextualized problem; therefore, there is no such thing as an unbiased or "objective" fire experiment. It is a thing that many researchers would understand but is very rarely pointed out. Where it is not a problem for fire science (more like a 'feature'), it may become one when the results of scientific experiments are directly applied to real-world engineering cases.

In this episode, I cover biases in research, from general ones to highly specific fire safety engineering biases. The list is long, we cover:

• selection bias
• confirmation bias
• measurement/instrumentation bias
• publication bias
• observer bias
• sampling/data analysis bias
• conflicts of interests

We also discuss the contextual nature of fire and fire science related to architecture, fuel, ignition, and environmental conditions. We cover experimental design and measurement techniques. While showcasing all those possible sources of uncertainty and error, it is important to highlight that the science is generally very reliable—you just need to know how to use it.

This is the final episode of 2024, so thank you very much for being here with the Fire Science Show and see you back on the Jan 8th 2025!!! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you!

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

I just drove 500 km to have a conversation with Professor Vincent Brannigan from the University of Maryland, a very unique expert who combines law with fire engineering. In this discussion, we go into the complexities of building codes and fire safety, comparing traditional design methods (prescriptive) with performance-based designs (and all the stuff in between them). Through anecdotes and historical fire incidents, we highlight the impact of these systems on societal safety, economic development, and international trade. Vincent's unique background in both law and technology provides a rich perspective on how fire safety regulations have evolved to meet contemporary challenges.

In the episode, we explore the ongoing shift from politically validated regulations to those grounded in technical knowledge. This transition parallels developments in fields like medicine, necessitating a higher level of precision and expertise in ensuring public safety. We also tackle the thorny issue of global standardization, examining how experiential knowledge and political influences shape fire safety laws worldwide.

Finally, the episode dives deep into the challenges of balancing innovation and compliance in building safety. With examples from the world of hotels, airports and tall buildings, we discuss the role of engineers and regulators in navigating complex safety landscapes. Historical case studies, like the Triangle Shirtwaist fire, serve as poignant reminders of the stakes involved. Listen in for a thought-provoking exploration of risk analysis, regulatory negotiations, and the constant evolution of fire safety standards as we seek to protect lives and foster innovation.

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

In this episode of fire science fundamentals, we cover the pressurisation systems. These are smoke control solutions used to prevent smoke from accessing protected spaces, by creating an overpressure in those spaces. Although the idea is very simple, its execution is far from that. Pressurization systems need to work in two distinct states – when all doors to the protected space are closed (over pressurization state), and when some openings are open (flow-path state). 

In this episode, we cover:

·         What are pressurization systems and why do we use them in buildings;

·         Static and dynamic pressure;

·         Pressurization systems as part of the smoke control strategy;

·         Old-type mechanical systems, and novel active control systems;

·         Role of vestibules/lobbies in resiliency strategy;

·         Practical examples of use;

·         Testing and certification.

Further recommended resources are:

·         Episode 47 with Grzegorz Sypek – Effective pressurization, https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1735815/episodes/10466514-047-effective-pressurization-of-compartments-with-grzegorz-sypek

·         Episode 116 – Natural and mechanical smoke control https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1735815/episodes/13493605-116-fire-fundamentals-pt-4-natural-and-powered-smoke-vents-with-wojciech

·         Episode 136 – Fire Automation in a building https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1735815/episodes/14325679-136-fire-fundamentals-pt-6-the-fire-automation-in-a-building

·         Węgrzyński & Antosiewicz - Autonomous Sensor-Driven Pressurization Systems: Novel Solutions and Future Trends, book chapter I’ve referred to in the episode. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-98685-8_11

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Discover the hidden backbone of fire safety with assurance industry expert Abhishek Chhabra as we unravel the essential frameworks that keep our buildings safe and sound. We explore the vital role of standards, accreditations, and testing mechanisms in fostering trust and compliance within the construction industry. It is not easy to talk about, but I assure you (pun intended) that Abhishek can talk about it in an engaging and fun way.

Gain a deeper understanding of the current landscape of fire safety engineering, where an urgent demand for robust credential assurance matches the scarcity of professionals. Delve into the complexities of establishing a comprehensive competence regime for the industry. Learn why the accuracy and repeatability of fire testing methods are indispensable in maintaining market trust and product safety. Through our conversation, we highlight the critical need for standards like ISO 17024, ISO 17025, ISO 17020 and 17065, ensuring that everyone, from designers to facility managers, is equipped with the necessary certifications.

As global safety standards evolve, the distinction between liability and responsibility becomes increasingly crucial. 

At the end of the episode, we also discuss performance-based design and the potentially transformative role of laboratories and inspection bodies in developing custom solutions, addressing the unique challenges of innovative engineering projects. Join us as we explore the vital importance of testing in delivering reliable performance outcomes, particularly in an era when safety cannot be compromised.

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Happy 200th birthday, Scottish Fire and Rescue Services!!! I'm a bit late to the party. Still, I've done my best to celebrate your anniversary in the best way I can - by giving homage to the amazing fire safety engineering and firefighting that came out of Edinburgh and your founder, James Braidwood.

In this episode, we tap into the secrets of early fire safety measures and discover the fascinating history of firefighting with our guest, Michał Stachowicz, a dedicated Scottish firefighter. We promise you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the roots of fire engineering, which surprisingly predate the establishment of professional firefighting. From the early codifications of the 1400s to the impactful Great Fire of London in 1666, this episode is brimming with riveting tales and historical insights into the evolution of fire protection in the UK.

We take a journey through time as we contrast the altruism of today's firefighters with the profit-driven origins of fire protection, shaped significantly by insurance companies. Learn about the preventative measures that were set in place long before formal fire services existed, including the fascinating use of historical firewalls in cities like Copenhagen. We also explore the pioneering efforts of James Braidwood, whose revolutionary work in risk management and fire prevention set the stage for organised firefighting in Edinburgh and London during the 19th century.

Join us as we honour Braidwood's legacy and his transformative impact on fire safety regulations and practices. From his groundbreaking techniques, such as early personal protective equipment and strategic fire station placements, to his radical ideas on fire spread prevention, Braidwood's forward-thinking approach remains influential. Despite facing financial hurdles and limited cooperation, his vision for a unified fire service prevailed, underscoring the enduring significance of his contributions. Michał Stachowicz helps us celebrate the indelible mark Braidwood left on the firefighting community, offering a compelling narrative for history enthusiasts and fire safety advocates alike.

Read more about Braidwood in this memoir book: Fire Prevention and Extinction by James Braidwood.
Visit the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage
Learn about the Great Fire of Edinburgh 
Cover image: One of Edinburgh's first fire engines from 1824, By Kim Traynor - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=19965754

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

Wildfire modelling is quite complicated when you wish to integrate different fuel packages with different properties in 'real' environmental conditions while managing the transition to/from smouldering. We have a model for each, but how do we make them work in unison without relying too much on their users' skills? This is a subject for a good research grant... a very big one. And this is something 'we' just got!

A fire scientist from King's College London, Dr Francesco Restuccia, has just secured an ERC grant for his innovative project on wildfire modelling. The project name is Wildfires and Climate Change: Physics-Based Modelling of Fire Spread in a Changing World.

In this podcast episode, we will discuss his current focus on developing physics-based models that promise to enhance our understanding of wildfire dynamics. We also focus on Francesco's current experience in batteries and how that experience translates to the work he is carrying out in the wildfires.

Throughout the episode, we explore the diverse range of models that predict wildfire behaviour, from straightforward empirical approaches to intricate physics-based simulations. We dive into the complexities of balancing ease of use with accuracy and discuss the exciting potential of reduced-order models that blend empirical data with physical insights. Dr. Restuccia offers a unique perspective on the challenges of automating complex models for broader applications and the necessity of identifying fire regimes to ensure precision is not compromised.

Dr. Restuccia also shares invaluable insights into securing an ERC grant, guiding aspiring researchers. From refining research ideas into a cohesive project to preparing for the competitive interview process, his experience underscores the importance of mentorship and strategic planning. We wrap up with a look at the future possibilities his research holds for fire safety engineering, inviting listeners to explore the transformative impact of advanced wildfire modelling on a global scale.

The grant description can be found here:  https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101161183

Do you have questions or want to send out your CV? The man told me to place his e-mail here... so here it is: [email protected]

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

You are not supposed to use the word 'panic' in the context of human behaviour in fires, yet this episode contains 196 instances of it. Why? because we try to get to the bottom of the thing! Can panic be both a myth and a reality?

Join us as we challenge the age-old narratives of panic in emergencies with our distinguished guest, Professor Daniel Nilsson, from the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand. We unravel the misconceptions surrounding human behaviour during fires, spotlighting the harmful effects of outdated myths perpetuated by media and literature. By debunking these myths, we aim to reshape fire safety engineering, focusing on realistic human reactions and informed decision-making.

Our conversation takes you across cultural landscapes, from the Western world to the Soviet Union, questioning national claims of panic susceptibility and the portrayal of panic as a contagious force. Challenging the historical context, we try to figure out what panic is once you apply the scientific method to understand it.

We also try to assess historical events like the Victoria Tower evacuation and the Love Parade tragedy, we underscore how engineering failures, not irrational behaviour, often lead to crowd disasters. Professor Nilsson and I delve into the psychology of decision-making during evacuations, emphasising the power of clear communication to prevent chaos and save lives.

Finally, we reflect on the profound research of Quarantelli, who redefined panic through thousands of disaster case studies, revealing the complexity of human responses in crises. We explore how cultural contexts influence perceived panic behaviour by differentiating between non-rational and irrational actions. We aim to enlighten fire safety professionals and the broader audience on the importance of replacing the myth of panic with empathy and evidence-based strategies, fostering a safer and more understanding approach to emergency responses.

Further reading?
Sure.
Daniel's paper in SFPE Europe magazine - is panic a myth or reality?
Proloux and Sime paper where they challanged the limiting of information (1991)

And if you really got into this, Jonathan Sime's PhD

Also, a ton of material on Human Behaviour and evacuation is waiting for you in the Uncovered Witness project!

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

The Grenfell Tower tragedy has triggered a Public Inquiry (which just published their final report), and concurrently - a review of the UK Building Regulations and Fire Safety. The latter task was given to Dame Judith Hackitt, a former Head of the Health and Safety Executive and a chemical engineer.

In this interview Dame Judith Hackitt lends her voice to a pressing dialogue on fire safety reform following the Grenfell Tower tragedy. She uncovers the systemic flaws that allowed such a disaster to occur and stresses the urgent need for a cultural shift in safety practices, beyond mere regulatory compliance. By dissecting the UK's Building Safety Act, we discuss the prioritization of life safety over property protection, particularly within vulnerable residential zones. This conversation not only addresses disparities between residential and commercial building regulations but urges a reevaluation of how safety standards are applied globally.

The episode further explores the inadequacy of outdated fire safety frameworks in the context of modern architecture. Dame Hackitt provides insights into the necessity of involving competent fire engineers early in the design process and the importance of a holistic approach to fire risk assessment. With a new regulatory regime shifting responsibility onto duty holders, the onus is on architects, constructors, and engineers to prove safety from the onset. We highlight the growing demand for skilled fire safety professionals and the need for collaboration and transparency, setting a performance-based precedent for future safety measures.

As we navigate these necessary changes, the discussion underscores the broader implications for the construction industry, including architects, designers, and product manufacturers. We delve into the challenges of adopting a new regulatory mindset, inspired by global practices and insights from esteemed reviews. Dame Hackett's perspectives advocate for industry-led guidance and innovation, stressing the potential for alliances to drive the evolution of fire safety standards. This transformative dialogue serves as a clarion call for heightened accountability and a collective pursuit of excellence within the construction landscape.

If you would like to learn about the regulatory review, please read the Dame Hackitt's final report.

If you would like a scientific commentary to this review, please refer to this paper by Spinardi and Law.

Some of the changes to the regulatory system were also discussed in the Episode 102 of the Fire Science Show about the changing role of architects in the system.

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.

AI is changing the world. But can artificial intelligence truly revolutionize fire safety engineering? In this episode I took out my crystal ball, and tried to find answers in what aspects of fire engineering we could truly see a revolutionary impact of AI, and where it is more a disturbing gadget with no real application... 

Overall, working in the space for many years, and having talked with many luminaries of the use of AI, I would say my expectations are toned down a lot. I am still excited, but I've also learnt that really good AI applications require exceptional knowledge and resources, often at a level not accessible in fire science. While the building blocks are there, we may be short in the data, processing power or knowledge to truly apply it. At the same time, as AI became a buzzword for novelty, a lot of people pursue very simple AI applications with extraordinary claims - something that kind of triggers and annoys me...

In this episode I try to give my opinion about the use of AI in:

• supporting fire modelling
• writing and reporting (engineering and in science)
• data processing
• predicting fire phenomena
• studying fire phenomena
• material properties
• fire testing and legislation

Each of those I've ranked on an arbitrary scale of 
1 - b-s. 
2 - not too excited
3 - a good use of AI
4 - very exciting use of AI
5 - paradigm shifting use of AI

Which got the highest rank? Listen to the episode to find by yourself :)

In the episode I refer a lot to the previous episodes of the Fire Science Show in which AI technology was discussed. You can listen to those in the AI/ML section of the podcast, find them all here: https://www.firescienceshow.com/category/ai-ml/

Big thanks to the inspirational guests and my close friends that helped me clear my mind on AI, especially to MZ Naser, Jakub Bielawski, Mike Spearpoint, Danny Hopkin, Matt Bonner, Xinyan Huang, Michael Kinsey and Mike Stromgren! 

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The Fire Science Show is produced by the Fire Science Media in collaboration with OFR Consultants. Thank you to the podcast sponsor for their continuous support towards our mission.