Alternative Solutions

Clients often come to Sereca with innovative or complex designs that fall outside the scope of existing building codes. When current codes do not support the use of an innovative material, or pose restrictions to an unconventional building design, Sereca can provide advice, perform analyses, and suggest options.

We have specialized experience in analyzing the performance of alternative materials and practices, such as those in LEED and other “green” buildings. We can propose solutions that meet design goals, while maintaining the fire and life safety objectives of the building code.

To develop an alternative solution, we begin with a deep understanding of the history and context of the current prescriptive codes. We analyze the proposed designs for fire propagation and spread, and develop strategies for smoke control and emergency egress. If the design warrants it, we apply performance-based principles. Our fire modelling techniques predict and visualize the impact of fire on building design, fire and smoke control systems, and the movement of people.

Code Consulting

As architecture advances, building and fire codes can lag behind. At Sereca, we apply our unique combination of engineering expertise and forensic knowledge to evaluate the fire and life safety requirements of innovative building designs.

We know the codes and their histories. We know why codes were devised. And we can help innovation-seeking designers—including those working toward ‘green’ LEED standards—to receive approval for new or unusual designs and building materials.
 
We are experienced in negotiating with authorities on code compliance. With performance-based design principles, and computer modelling that verifies a design’s fire or evacuation performance, we can help you succeed in obtaining approval for a novel design or concept.

Product Compliance

Product manufacturers and suppliers often find that new products don’t fit current building or fire codes. Sereca can help.

We understand the codes and the reasoning behind them, and we can clarify the acceptance criteria to help your product achieve acceptance by the authorities. We can test your product or methods for compliance—we can design and conduct a fire-testing program to audit its performance—and we can negotiate on your behalf to the appropriate authorities.

Risk Assessment

Every building project is faced with endless options and choices—some of which may involve varying degrees of probability of failure and/or risk to life, health, property, or the environment.

Sereca, with our diversity of backgrounds in forensics and fire engineering, is the ideal choice to evaluate the fire and life-related risks of various options. We have the expertise and insight that comes from involvement with thousands of projects, both large and small. We can run tests and apply computer models as required, and may be able to propose practical, manageable alternatives to mitigate potential damage.

We are experienced in collaborating with fire-testing laboratories, standards agencies, and other industry professionals, and can work with them on your behalf.