PASSIVE DESIGN FIRE PROTECTION IN HIGH-RISE RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION IN ABUJA, NIGERIA

Abstract

In Nigeria, high-rise residential buildings are increasing due to land scarcity driven by escalating prices and population growth. This is in addition to the need to grapple with critical fire safety challenges with over 7,000 annual fire outbreaks. This research delves into Abuja's high-rises, aiming to comprehensively assess passive fire protection measures' benefits, challenges, and strategies for long-term implementation. By deploying quantitative methods, 250 questionnaires were shared with building occupants, of which 213 responded, resulting in a remarkable 86% response rate and high data reliability (0.946). Notably, the findings underscore the pivotal role of specific passive design elements—like compartmentalization, fire-resistant materials, and evacuation components—in fostering safer living environments within the building. Challenges such as the lack of building fire safety compliance (0.881) and insufficient awareness (0.876) regarding passive design fire protection strategies were identified by the building occupants. This highlights the pressing need for tailored guidelines and enhanced stakeholder education. This research underscores the critical role of passive fire protection in addressing fire safety challenges in Abuja's high-rise residential buildings. It accentuates the urgent need for tailored guidelines, enhanced awareness, and comprehensive stakeholder education, emphasising the potential for enhanced safety and a resilient urban environment and prioritising the well-being of occupants and stakeholders in Abuja. The paper concludes by advocating for a balanced approach, emphasising the synergy between innovative design, regulatory compliance, and pragmatic solutions to create safer and more resilient urban living environments.