Use of external glass facade systems in buildings is increasing primarily due to their significant role in enhancing the energy efficiency and appearance of the building. However, these systems are susceptible to fire hazards. Fires in the glass façade buildings in India in the past decade such as Carlton tower fire, Bangalore (2010 – Death 9), Bandra Kurla Complex fire, Mumbai (2012), IBL house fire, Mumbai (2013 – Death 4), Lotus Business park fire, Mumbai (2014 – Death 5), ESIC hospital fire, Mumbai (2018 – Death 10), etc. leading to casualties and heavy economic losses highlights the problem of rapid vertical fire propagation and smoke infiltration within compartments (after fire breaching the compartment of origin) and stresses the need for effective compartmentation using proper firestop and smoke barrier solutions.

For more information, please check the PDF :