An Appraisal of Fire Safety Measures in Ambrose Alli University Buildings.
CHAPTER ONE
Objective of the study
The objectives of this study are as follows:
- To evaluate the existing fire safety measures implemented in the buildings of Ambrose Alli University.
- To identify deficiencies in the current fire safety measures and protocols.
- To investigate the level of awareness and training related to fire safety among students, staff, and management at Ambrose Alli University.
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
Fire Safety in High-Rise Buildings
The rapid growth of urban population globally, specifically the development of mega cities and the increase in incidences of non-accidental fires has prompted careful consideration of fire ‘safety’ in populated urban centres. Among the incidences of non-accidental fires captured globally included the terrorist attack fires in the World Trade Centre on 11 September, 2001 in USA (Chow, 2001a), Arson fires in a bank, in universities in Beijing (Chow, 1995) and underground railway arson fires in South Korea and Russia (Chow, 2001a). Fundamentally, fire safety codes of buildings deal with accidental fires. But with the terrorist attack of World Trade Centre and several other arson incidences, non-accidental fire should be considered because with so many political and social conflicts, the probability of having terrorist attacks and arson fires is quite getting higher than usual (Chow, 2001a; Chow, 2001b). Modern architectural features, such as the utilization of numerous glass wares for constructions, might constitute extra problems. Cracking and falling down of glass panels as a result of explosion or failure of the fittings for putting in place the glass panels would provide greater air intake rate to support combustion and eventually cause greater heat emission that could result in severe damages (Fire Services Department, 1998). Amongst the fire safety challenges of high-rise buildings are: accessibility of firemen and delivery of equipment for rescuing people and combating of fires are upward through lifts or staircases; direct rescuing through ground applications from the exterior of buildings is impossible; basic routes of escape for occupants are downward by lifts or staircases; direct application of water by fire fighting jets from the outside the building is impracticable or much stalled and fire fighting techniques (application of water, fire ventilation amongst others) are usually applied from the interior of buildings (Chow, 2001a).
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain an Appraisal of fire safety measures in Ambrose Alli university buildings. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing an Appraisal of fire safety measures in Ambrose Alli university buildings
Summary
This study was on ascertain an Appraisal of fire safety measures in Ambrose Alli university buildings. Three objectives were raised which included: To evaluate the existing fire safety measures implemented in the buildings of Ambrose Alli University, to identify deficiencies in the current fire safety measures and protocols and to investigate the level of awareness and training related to fire safety among students, staff, and management at Ambrose Alli UniversityA total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from Ambrose Alli University. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
This study has provided a comprehensive appraisal of fire safety measures in Ambrose Alli University buildings, highlighting both the existing provisions and areas for improvement. The evaluation revealed that while some fire safety measures are in place, there are significant gaps in compliance with established standards and protocols. The lack of adequate fire alarms, extinguishers, emergency exits, and regular fire drills poses a considerable risk to the safety of students and staff. Furthermore, a lack of awareness and training regarding fire safety among the university community further exacerbates the potential for fire incidents.
Given the importance of fire safety in safeguarding lives and property, this study underscores the urgent need for enhanced fire safety measures at Ambrose Alli University. By addressing the identified deficiencies and implementing comprehensive fire safety protocols, the university can create a safer environment for its students and staff.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are proposed to improve fire safety measures at Ambrose Alli University:
- Regular fire risk assessments should be conducted to identify potential hazards and evaluate the effectiveness of existing fire safety measures. This will help inform the development of targeted strategies for improvement.
- The university should invest in installing and maintaining essential fire safety equipment, including fire alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and clearly marked emergency exits. These measures are vital for early detection and effective response to fire incidents.
- The university should establish a schedule for conducting regular fire drills to familiarize students and staff with emergency evacuation procedures. This practice will enhance preparedness and ensure that everyone knows how to respond in the event of a fire.
- Comprehensive fire safety training programs should be developed and implemented for all students and staff. These programs should cover fire prevention strategies, emergency response protocols, and the proper use of fire safety equipment.
- The formation of a dedicated fire safety committee within the university can facilitate ongoing oversight and improvement of fire safety measures. This committee should be responsible for developing policies, conducting training, and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
- Collaboration with local fire services can provide valuable resources and expertise in fire safety management. Regular consultations and training sessions with fire professionals can enhance the university’s fire safety protocols.
References
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