Implementation of performance-based fire codes

Performance-based design for fire safety was adopted in New Zealand in 1993. This paper describes a survey of approving authorities, carried out to quantify the major changes during the first five years of the new code. A considerable number of designers are using the freedom of the new legislation to make significant departures from the prescriptive documents. Some approving authorities are assessing the performance-based designs in-house, but many are relying on consultants. The new code has resulted in a major increase in perceived life safety, but a significant decrease in property protection. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.