Underground garages and parking garages are fundamental components of urban infrastructure. Nevertheless, they pose considerable challenges for fire protection due to their structural characteristics and specific use. This article highlights known hazards, current developments and practical measures.
Fire hazards in underground garages
Underground parking garages pose a complex safety challenge. The confined space of underground parking areas harbors multiple hazards that can have considerable consequences, especially in the event of a fire.
For example, motor vehicles are equipped from the ground up with a large number of highly flammable materials. Classic combustion engines contain large quantities of fuels such as petrol and diesel, while plastic components and rubber parts additionally promote the spread of fire.
With the advent of electromobility, the risks have become even more diverse. Lithium-ion batteries pose a specific hazard potential, as they are difficult to extinguish in the event of a thermal runaway and can also cause unpredictable fire patterns. In addition, charging stations for electric cars must be created, which require the installation of large amounts of electricity (cables, charging equipment, etc.) in underground parking garages. This practically 'electrifies' the underground car park. If you now look at the most common cause of fire, it is precisely this electricity!
The structural design of underground car parks exacerbates this problem. Low ceilings (often less than 1.9 m), limited escape routes, poor ventilation and the tight positioning of vehicles not only make rescue work more difficult, but also accelerate the potential spread of fire.
A fire produces toxic gases and smoke particles. These spread particularly quickly in the confined space of the underground garage, significantly impairing visibility and breathing and considerably reducing the chances of survival of the people present.
Solutions for fire protection in underground garages
A holistic approach that combines structural, technical and organizational measures is essential for effectively preventing and fighting fires.
1. construction measures
The structural design of an underground parking garage lays the foundation for fire protection:
- Fire protection walls and ceilings: Limit the spread of fire and smoke and increase the stability of the structure in the event of a fire.
- Smoke and heat exhaust ventilation systems (SHEVS): dissipate smoke and heat in a targeted manner to keep escape routes passable and improve visibility for emergency services.
- Fire-resistant building materials: The use of non-combustible building materials for walls, ceilings and supports reduces the risk of structural collapse.
- Separation of areas: Small fire compartments prevent the uncontrolled spread of fire.
2. technical measures
Technical equipment ensures early detection and effective firefighting:
- Extinguishing systems: Automatic extinguishing systems that can specifically limit the spread of fire.
- Fire detection systems: Sensors and alarm systems for early detection and warning.
- Fire extinguishers: Strategically placed extinguishers, adapted to different fire classes (A, B, C and D for metal fires).
- Temperature sensors and video surveillance: Monitoring systems to detect overheating and the outbreak of fire.
3. organizational measures
Well-trained users and well thought-out organizational processes are essential:
- Evacuation plans: clear and highly visible escape route markings.
- Fire safety training: Regular briefings and training for staff to act correctly in an emergency.
- Regular maintenance: All technical systems should be checked and maintained at set intervals.
New risks for fire protection in parking garages
Increasing electromobility poses specific challenges for fire protection. The installed lithium-ion batteries can self-ignite due to uncontrollable chain reactions.
The most effective firefighting methods are water mist, sand or special foam. For safety reasons, e-vehicles should be parked in separate parking areas at greater distances from other vehicles. Temperature sensors enable early detection of overheating and immediately trigger an alarm in an emergency.
Prevention is the key
Fire protection in underground car parks is a complex task that requires close cooperation between operators, users, planners and emergency services.
Risks can be effectively minimized with an integrative concept that intelligently combines structural, technical and organizational measures. Adapting to modern challenges such as electric vehicles is essential.
