Case Study of Building Services in Multi-Purpose Buildings involving Public Use

BUILDING SERVICES 60903
Case Study of Building Services in Multi-Storey Buildings Involving Public Use
Case Study Building : Block D7, Parcel D, Putrajaya
TUTOR :
AR. ZAFAR ROZALY
GROUP MEMBERS :
AW ZHI XUAN 0327651
CARMEN CHAN SHEN WEN 0326485
CHAN JIA CHIN 0326560
CHU SHI VON 0327134
KHOO SUE LING 0326470
NICHOLAS CHOY JIA WEI 0326488

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgements
Abstract
List of Figures
List of Diagrams
List of Tables
Chapter 1: Introduction to Site
Chapter 2: Passive Fire Safety System
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Case Study
2.2.1 Overview
2.2.2 Fire Appliance Access
2.2.2.1 Fire Engine Access
2.2.3 Means of Escape
2.2.3.1 Evacuation Routes
2.2.3.2 Exits
2.2.3.3 Assembly Point
2.2.3.4 Fire Escape Plan
2.2.3.5 Exit Signages
2.2.4 Passive Containment
2.2.4.1 Compartmentation
2.2.4.2 Fire Containment
2.3 Conclusion

Chapter 3: Active Fire Safety System
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Case Study
3.2.1 Water Based System
3.2.1.1 External Fire Hydrant
3.2.1.2 Wet Riser System
3.2.1.3 Wet Riser Pump
3.2.1.4 Automatic Fire Sprinkler
3.2.2 Non-Water Based System
3.2.2.1 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Suppression System
3.2.2.2 Portable Fire Extinguisher
3.2.3 Alarm and Detection System
3.2.3.1 Fire Alarm System
3.2.3.2 Smoke Control System
3.2.3.3 Fire Control Room
3.3 Conclusion
Chapter 4: Mechanical Transportation System
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Case Study
4.2.1 Overview
4.2.2 Elevator Lobby
4.2.3 Gearless Traction Elevator System
4.2.3.1 Motor Room
4.2.3.2 Elevator Shaft
4.2.3.3 Elevator Cabin
4.2.4 Fire Elevator
4.3 Conclusion

Chapter 5: Air-Conditioning System
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Case Study
5.2.1 Overview
5.2.2 Types of Air-Conditioning Systems
5.2.2.1 District Cooling
5.2.2.2 Variable Air Volume (VAV)
5.2.3 Air-Conditioning Devices
5.2.3.1 Air Handling Unit (AHU)
5.2.3.2 Diffusers
5.2.3.3 Air Cooled Split Unit
5.2.4 Materiality of the Air-Conditioning Ducts
5.3 Conclusion
Chapter 6: Mechanical Ventilation System
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Case study
6.2.1 Overview
6.2.2 Supply Ventilation System
6.2.2.1 Fire lobby Pressurization System
6.2.3 Extract Ventilation System
6.2.3.1 Toilet Extract System
6.2.3.2 Car park Extract System
6.2.3.3 Utility room Extract System
6.3 Conclusion
References

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
First of all, we would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to those who gave valuable
advices, guidance and support in assisting us in conducting site visit and in writing this report.
Without them, accomplishing these would be a long and arduous road.
We wish to express our appreciation to our tutor, Ar. Zafar Rozaly for aiding us in obtaining
permission for our case study building, Parcel D (Block D7) in Putrajaya. He also taught and
guide us in writing this report, showing us how a building works even after a long traffic
congestion late at night while fighting his urge to yawn.
We would also wish to extend our gratitude to Mr Shahril and Mr Hisham for giving us a briefing
us and giving us a revision on building services. Mr Hisham also gave us a tour and explained
the different parts of building services. Besides that, we would also grateful to Mr Kugen for
approving our visit even though it is a highly sensitive government complex.

ABSTRACT
This study is a study to identify and analyse the building services in a multi-storey building,
which in this case is an office building. As a group, we are introduced to the types of building
services and why it is vital to a building as a whole. These building service systems are
important to ensure the comfort and needs of the building occupants while ensuring their safety.
If structure is the skeleton, building services are the veins.
Thus to experience what we were introduced first hand, we are to conduct a site visit to an
actual multi-storey building. A detail study and analysis consisting of 4 main building services,
namely; Mechanical ventilation systems, Air-conditioning systems, Mechanical transportation
systems and the most crucial aspect, Fire Protection systems (active and passive) were
conducted.
From our study and compilation into this report, we have achieved a better understanding of
the basic principles, processes, and equipments used in these systems, and also how these
systems are integrated in the building. This results on a further realisation of the difficulties and
importance of merging the services as a seamless whole.

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1: Block D7 (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 1.2: Location of Block D7 (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.1: The fire hydrant for Block D7. (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.2: Horizontal exit into the fire fighting lobby. (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.3: Within the Fire Lobby corridor. (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.4: Emergency Escape Staircase at Level 3 (Khoo, 2018).
Figure 2.5: Emergency Escape Staircase from the Motor Room at Level 10. (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.6: Parcel D Square (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.7: Location of Assembly Point (Google Maps, 2018)
Figure 2.8: Fire Escape Plan at Level 1 (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.9: Exit Sign at the Fire Doors leading into the Fire Lobby (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.10: Exit Sign at the Door leading into the Emergency Escape Staircase (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.11: Double flush fire rated door at Block D7 (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.12: Single flush fire rated door at Block D7 (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.13: Fire damper in the AHU room (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 3.1: Fire hydrants (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 3.2: Wet riser (Chan, 2018)
Figure 3.4: Openings to water storage tank (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.5: Water storage tank (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.6: Duty and standby pump (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.7: Jockey pump (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.8 Pump controller (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.9: Fire sprinkler in Block D7 (Chan, 2018)
Figure 3.10: Fire sprinkler components (Supply House, n.d.)
Figure 3.11: ABC powder fire extinguisher (NIcholas, 2018)
Figure 3.12: Fire alarm (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.13: Manual pull station (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.14: Fireman switch (Willrose Electrical, n.d.)
Figure 3.15: Remote fireman intercom (Mictron, n.d.)
Figure 3.16: Fireman intercom in control room (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.17: Smoke detector (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.18: Ventilation controls in control room (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.19: Fire control room (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.20: Fire control panel (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.21: PA system (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.22: Control panel (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 4.1: Operational permit (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.2: Notice showing the weight limit (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.3: Elevator Lobby (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.5: Warning signs at the entrance of the motor room (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.6: Elevator motor resting on bedplates and concrete (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.7: Air-conditioned, clean and well illuminated motor room (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.8: Gearless motor machine (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.9: Close up of gearless motor machine (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.10: Driving sheave (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.11: Cable rope (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.12: Governor in the motor room (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.13 : Cable rope opening
Figure 4.14: Control Panel Cabinets
Figure 4.15: Inspection board
Figure 4.16: Close-up of inspection board
Figure 4.17: Elevator monitor in fire control room
Figure 4.18: Emergency landing device
Figure 4.19: Guard rail inside the elevator shaft. (greenteamenv, n.d.)
Figure 4.20: Roller guide shoes (indiamart, n.d.)

Figure 4.21: Progressive-type Safety Brake (kisa-global, n.d.)
Figure 4.22: Hoisting cable grouping (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.23: Counterweight (pinsdaddy, n.d.)
Figure 4.24: Landing door (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.25: Elevator motor and operator (schmelevator, 2016)
Figure 4.26: Oil buffer (hydroniclift, n.d.)
Figure 4.27: Elevator pit (spec7group, 2017)
Figure 4.28: Travelling cable (elevation, n.d.)
Figure 4.29: Elevator door sensor (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.30: Cabin operating panel (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.31: Elevator monitors in the fire control room (Chan, 2018)
Figure 5.1: Compressor (macsworldwide, 2010)
Figure 5.2: Condenser (shopify, n.d.)
Figure 5.3: Condenser (glenwoodauto, n.d.)
Figure 5.4: Thermostatic expansion valve (imimg, n.d.)
Figure 5.5: Filters (Acfilters, n.d.)
Figure 5.6: Air blower (imimg, n.d.)
Figure 5.7: Air Conditioning Duct (imimg, n.d.)
Figure 5.8: Air Diffuser (premierheatingcooling, 2018)
Figure 5.9: The pipes that direct chilled water supply and return flow from the main central chiller plant. The pipes are connected with every AHU
room in each floor of the entire Block D7. (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.10 : VAV terminal unit located inside AHU Room at the corner of the wall. (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.11 : Outside AHU Room at the end of the corridor. The desk at the side causes cramping and inconvenience in entering this room.
(Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.12 : The space inside the AHU room is small. This causes inconvenience when it comes to maintenance of the components of the AHU
unit. (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.13 : The supply air and return air ducts (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.14 : Brand name for the AHU unit (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.15: Panel Filters (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.16 : AHU control panel (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.17 : Variable speed drive (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.18: Four ways diffuser used in rooms and corridors (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.19 : Two slots linear diffuser (Aw, 2018)
Figure 5.20: Two slots linear diffuser used in the corridor in front the lifts (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.21: Air cooled split unit in the elevator motor room (Aw, 2018)
Figure 5.22 : The pipes are layered with galvanised steel. (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.23 :The pipes are layered with spray foam. (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 6.1: Fire lobby pressurization system (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.2: Stairwell without pressurization system (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.3: Stairwell natural ventilation source (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.4: Mechanical exhaust vent grilles (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.5: Natural supply inlet grilles (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.6: Traditional rectangular metal-sheeting ductwork (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.7: Mechanical exhaust grilles (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.8: Utility room exhaust vent taken from outside of utility room (Chu, 2018)
Figure 6.9: Utility room exhaust vent taken from outside of utility room (Chu, 2018)

LIST OF DIAGRAMS
Diagram 2.1: Overview of Passive Fire Safety System (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.2: Fire Engine Access Road around Block D7. (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.3: The width of the fire engine access road. (Choy, 2018)
Diagram 2.4: Evacuation Routes for Level 3. (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.7: Exits of Level 3 (Khoo, 2018).
Diagram 2.10: Direction of Exit from Block D7 (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.11: Specification of the steps of the staircase. (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.12: Dimension of staircase landing. (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.13: Headroom height of the staircase. (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.14: Compartmentation of Level 3 (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.17: Components of a Fire Rated Door (nagarealm, 2018)
Diagram 3.1: Wet riser system structure (Indiamart, n.d)
Diagram 3.2: Location of wet risers on the 3rd floor (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 3.3: Fire sprinkler (Indiamart, n.d.)
Diagram 3.4: Fire sprinkler coverage (Chan, n.d.)
Diagram 3.5: Low pressure tank (Janus Systems, n.d.)
Diagram 3.6: High pressure tank (Fire Knock, n.d.)
Diagram 3.7: Location of fire extinguishers on 4th floor (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 3.8: Location of fire alarm on 4th floor (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 3.9: Drawn diagram on process of smoke detection (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 4.1: Position of elevator cores throughout Block D7 (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 4.2: Elevator lobby location on the third floor
Diagram 4.3: Gearless Traction Elevators (aboutelevator, 2015)
Diagram 4.4: Elevator motor room location on the roof (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 4.5: Governor operation during an emergency (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 4.6 : Elevator shaft components
Diagram 4.7: Elevator safety brakes (electrical-knowhow, 2012)
Diagram 4.8: Wrapping systems (apicsllc, n.d.)
Diagram 4.9: Elevator cabin (hitachi, 2017)
Diagram 4.10: Elevator frame (electrical-knowhow, 2012)
Diagram 4.11: Elevator apron (pinterest, n.d.)
Diagram 4.12: Multi-beam door sensor (bonexlifts, n.d.)
Diagram 4.13: Position of fire elevator on the third floor (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 5.1 : Basic refrigerant cycle (swtc, n.d.)
Diagram 5.2: Thermostatic expansion valve
(acmobilmandala, 2017)
Diagram 5.3: Components of Air Cycle (clipartxtras, n.d.)
Diagram 5.4: Air Handling Fan (quickdraft, n.d.)
Diagram 5.5 : District cooling system on Block D7 (Diagram by Carmen, 2018)
Diagram 5.6: VAV controls air volume supplied by the AHU to meet the efficient temperature needed by the office.
(Sketch by Carmen, 2018)
Diagram 5.7: Vertical Draw Through Air Handling Unit (Sketch by Chan, 2018)
Diagram 6.1: Supply Ventilation (House Energy, n.d.)
Diagram 6.2: Fire lobby pressurization system location on floor plan (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 6.3: Sketch diagram of fire lobby pressurization system (Chu, 2018)
Diagram 6.4: Axial fan system (LEESII, n.d.)
Diagram 6.5: Rectangular ductwork (Mechanical Ventilation, n.d.)

Diagram 6.6: Stairwell without pressurization system (House Energy, n.d.)
Diagram 6.7: Location of toilet extract system in plan (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 6.8: How odour is exhausted through exhaust fan grille in the toilet (Schematic diagram by Chan, 2018)
Diagram 6.9: Sketch diagram of airflow of car park into mechanical exhaust system (Chu, 2018)
Diagram 6.10: Traditional metal-sheeting car park exhaust system (Quora, 2017)
Diagram 6.11: Sketch diagram of airflow from utility room to exhaust vent (Chu, 2018)
LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1: Overview of Active Fire Safety System (Nicholas, 2018)
Tabel 4.1: Specification of the Elevator (Chan, 2018)

1.0 INTRODUCTION TO SITE
Block D7, the chosen building for this case study is a part of a government complex collective
called Parcel D in Putrajaya, where it is strategically located near Alamanda Shopping Complex
and the greenery of Taman Putra Perdana. Parcel D consists of a cluster of 10 government
buildings, which are the Federal Government’s agencies, spanning an area of 1.67 million
square feet.
Block D7 is a government office complex consisting of 10 floors including the roof floor. It is the
second building on the west side of Parcel D government complex. The building houses the
Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Human Resource. These two ministries further divided
into the National Audit Department (Jabatan Audit Negara), Registry of Societies Malaysia
(Jabatan Pendaftaran Pertubuhan Malaysia), and Film Censorship Board (Bahagian Kawalan
Penapisan Filem dan Penguatkuasaan, Kementerian dalam Negeri).
UBBL 1984
Fifth Schedule
Designation of Purpose Groups, By-law 134, 138
IV. Office
Office, or premises used for office purposes, meaning thereby the purposes of
administration, clerical work (including writing, bookkeeping, sorting papers, filing, typing,
duplicating, machine-calculating, drawing and the editorial preparation of matter for
publication), handling money and telephone and telegraph operating.
BLOCK D7
Figure 1.1: Block D7
(Carmen, 2018)
Figure 1.2: Location of
Block D7 (Khoo, 2018)
1

2.0 PASSIVE FIRE SAFETY SYSTEM
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Passive fire protection is a form of fire safety on a structural level. It begins at the designing and
conceptual stages of any construction. It is built into buildings to ensure the protection of
occupants in the situation where active fire protection fails. Passive fire protection system must
comply with the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL). Passive fire protection is divided into 3
subcategories: Fire Fighting Access, Means of Escape and Passive Containment.
The function of passive fire safety is:
1) To protect and ensure the safe evacuation of occupants from the building.
2) To contain fire and smoke to prevent it from spreading within the building or to another
building.
3) To minimise the damages of the property of the building.
2.2 CASE STUDY
2.2.1 OVERVIEW
Different purpose groups of buildings require different fire protection requirements. Each block
in Parcel D has their own separate passive fire safety system. The building of our case study is
Block D7. Block D7 falls under the Office purpose group and consists entirely of offices.
Passive Fire Safety
Fire Fighting
Access
Means of
Escape
Passive
Containment
Diagram 2.1: Overview of Passive Fire Safety System (Khoo, 2018)
2

2.2.2 FIRE APPLIANCE ACCESS
2.2.2.1 Fire Engine Access
Office buildings of more than 7000 cubic meter should be attached to an access road. This
access road should have a minimum width of 6m. This road should be able to withstand the
load of fire engines. The access roads should have a proper turn around for the fire engine, in
the form of T-turn, shunt or circle.
UBBL 1984
PART VII: FIRE REQUIREMENTS
Fire Appliance Access, By-law 140
All buildings in excess of 7000 cubic metres shall abut upon a street or road or open space of
not less than 12 metres width and accessible to fire brigade appliances. The proportion of the
building abutting the street, road or open space shall be in accordance with the following scale.
Block D7 falls under the category of the 56000 to 84000 cubic metres category. As such, the
minimum proportion for the access road in relation to the perimeter of the building should be
half.
Volume of building in cubic meter Minimum proportion of perimeter of building
7000 to 28000 one-sixth
28000 to 56000 one-fourth
56000 to 84000 one-half
84000 to 112000 three-fourths
112000 and above Island site
3

Width of Fire Engine Access Road
The width of the fire engine access road
adjacent to Block D7 is 7m which is enough for
fire appliance access. The minimum width for
the use of the turntable of a fire engine is 5m
while the use a hydraulic platform is 5.5m.
Location of Fire Hydrants
According to a Guide to Fire Protection in
Malaysia, each building should be located within
a 45m radius of a fire hydrant.
At Parcel D, a fire hydrant is located between
everything 2 blocks. Block D7 shares a fire
hydrant with Block D8. The distance between
the fire hydrant and the fire appliance access
road is approximately 2m. The fire hydrant
serving Block D7 is clear from any obstructions.
It is also located more than 2m from its adjacent
buildings which gives it an adequate distance
from the building so that it will not be rendered
inoperable in the case of an emergency.
Nearest Fire Hydrant
BLOCK D7
Fire Engine Access
7m
Diagram 2.2: Fire Engine Access Road around Block D7. (Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.3: The width of the fire engine access road. (Choy, 2018)
Figure 2.1: The fire hydrant for Block D7. (Khoo, 2018)
4

2.2.3 MEANS OF ESCAPE
The means of escape of a building should be taken into consideration during its design stages.
This is because the process of evacuation during an emergency is aided by the different means
of escape throughout a building. The various means of escape in a building is a major
component in the passive fire safety system of a building. It protects and aids the occupants in
the building to leave safely from the building.
2.2.3.1 Evacuation Routes
The evacuation routes are the circulation patterns for the occupants to reach the emergency
escape staircases within the building in the fastest and shortest route. Evacuation routes are
continuous and unobstructed path of exit travel within a workspace to a place of safety.
In Block D7, the evacuation routes differ slightly throughout the floors. Each floors are also fitted
with a sprinkler system so a longer evacuation route can be implemented. The different colours
of arrows in the following diagrams indicate the pathways nearest to the different respective
emergency exit staircases.
For Level 3, it is the typical office floor layout for Block D7. Each work space within this floor is
well connected to a fire escape staircase. There are 4 emergency staircases within this floor,
providing an adequate amount of exits to cater to the occupants. The North and South
staircases cater to a wider radius of occupants.
LEGEND:
FIRE LIFT
EXITS
ESCAPE ROUTE 1
ESCAPE ROUTE 2
ESCAPE ROUTE 3
ESCAPE ROUTE 4
5

Level 4 of Block D7 is an open floor plan office space. Occupants within the office space have
the option to exit through 2 emergency exit staircases which can be entered from within the
open plan space. The 2 other emergency exit staircases are located outside the office space
but can provide escape for the users at the corridor.
Level 9 is the highest office floor space of Block D7. There are only 3 emergency exit staircases
within this floor which is less than the other floors. Each respective emergency exit staircase is
catered equally to the occupants within the office spaces. The emergency exit staircases within
Level 9 connects to the Motor Room Floor on Level 10 to Level 9.
LEGEND:
FIRE LIFT
EXITS
ESCAPE ROUTE 1
ESCAPE ROUTE 2
ESCAPE ROUTE 3
ESCAPE ROUTE 4
LEGEND:
FIRE LIFT
EXITS
ESCAPE ROUTE 1
ESCAPE ROUTE 2
ESCAPE ROUTE 3
6

2.2.3.2 Exits
Exits are a passageway which transports a user out of one space to another or out of a building.
The exits in Block D7 occur in the form of horizontal exits and vertical exits, which are indicated
in the following diagrams.
LEGEND:
HORIZONTAL EXIT
VERTICAL EXIT
LEGEND:
HORIZONTAL EXIT
VERTICAL EXIT
7

LEGEND:
FIRE LIFT
EXITS
ESCAPE ROUTE 1
ESCAPE ROUTE 2
ESCAPE ROUTE 3
LEGEND:
HORIZONTAL EXIT
VERTICAL EXIT
LEGEND:
VERTICAL EXIT
Diagram 2.10: Direction of Exit from Block D7 (Khoo,
2018)
FINAL EXIT
8

Horizontal Exits
The horizontal exits are exits that allows occupants to egress from one side of a building to
another side through a fire-resistance-rated assembly, such as a fire wall or fire barrier. The
horizontal exit provides an additional layer of fire-resistive protection between the fire source
and the occupants to allow them to safely exit through a vertical exit enclosure. A horizontal exit
consists essentially of separating a story into portions by dividing it with construction having a
fire-resistance rating.
UBBL 1984
PART VII: FIRE REQUIREMENTS, By-law 171
(1) Where appropriate, horizontal exits may be provided in lieu of other exits.
(2) Where horizontal exits are provided, protected staircases and final exits need only be of
a width to accommodate the occupancy load of the large compartment or building
discharging into it so long as the total number of exit widths provided is not reduced to
less than half that would otherwise be required for the whole building.
Horizontal Exits in Block D7 consists of the fire protected corridor which leads occupants to the
emergency escape staircase. This corridor uses a pressurization system which prevents smoke
from fires to enter. The fire protected corridor in Block D7 is 2.3m wide which is wide enough to
accommodate more than 10 occupants at once.
Figure 2.2: Horizontal exit into the fire fighting lobby.
(Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.3: Within the Fire Lobby corridor.
(Khoo, 2018)
9

Storey Exits
Storey exits are the vertical exits of a building, it is how occupants exit from a floor. It usually
comes in the form of emergency exit staircases. These exit staircases are enclosed and should
safely transport an occupant to the final exit in the case of emergencies.
UBBL 1984
(1) Except as provided for in by-law 194 every compartment shall be provided with at least
two storey exits located as far as practical from each other and in no case closer than 4.5
metres and in such position that the travel distances specified in the Seventh Schedule to
these By-laws are not exceeded.
(2) The width of storey exits shall be in accordance with the provisions in the Seventh
Schedule to these By-laws.
There are 3 vertical exits in Block D7 that run from Level 9 which is the highest office floor, all
the way to the ground floor. The multiple vertical exits within the building gives occupants
options during evacuation in the case that one of the vertical exit is inaccessible. The vertical
exits in Block D7 are located within an enclosed fire protected lobby, allowing users to evacuate
in safety.
Figure 2.4: Emergency Escape
Staircase at Level 3 (Khoo,
2018).
Figure 2.5: Emergency Escape Staircase from the
Motor Room at Level 10. (Khoo, 2018)
10

Emergency Escape Staircase
Emergency Escape Staircases are vital components of a building. They serve as the main exits
and the primary escape routes of any multi-storey building. Emergency escape staircases in a
building should be well designed in terms of usability, practicality and predictability.
There is a total of 22 flight of staircases in Block D7 with 2 flight of stairs connecting each floor.
Each flight consists of 12 risers. The length of the staircase is 110mm, the tread is 26mm and
the riser is 16mm. The staircases are wide enough for the use 2 occupants simultaneously. This
aids in shortening evacuation time during emergencies. A fire door which opens up to the
emergency escape staircase in Block D7. The door swing does not obstruct the staircase and
the landing is 1185mm which is longer than the width of a thread. The staircases in Block D7
complies with the UBBL and the Guide to Fire Protection in Malaysia.
260mm
160mm
1100mm
>2000mm
2260mm
1185mm
Diagram 2.11: Specification of the steps of the staircase.
(Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.12: Dimension of staircase landing.
(Khoo, 2018)
Diagram 2.13: Headroom height of the staircase.
(Khoo, 2018)
11

UBBL 1984
PART VII: Fire Requirements, By-law 168
(1) Except as provided for in by-law 194 every upper floor shall have means of egress via at
least two separate staircase.
(2) Staircases shall be of such width that in the event of any one staircase not being
available for escape purposes the remaining staircases shall accommodate the highest
occupancy load of any one floor discharging into it calculated in accordance with
provisions in the Seventh Schedule to these By-laws.
(3) The required width of a staircase shall be the clear width between walls but handrails
may be permitted to encroach on this width to a maximum of 75mm.
(4) The required width of staircase shall be maintained throughout the length including at
landings.
(5) Doors giving access to staircases shall be so positioned that their swing shall at no point
encroach on the required width of the staircase or landing.
GUIDE TO FIRE PROTECTION IN MALAYSIA
Chapter 4.4: Means of Escape
4.4.6 Staircases
The following information on steps and stair must be shown on drawings submitted to JBPM:
(i) number of treads (or risers) which shall not exceed 16 in a single flight unless it is for
stairs within an individual residential unit (By-law 107 [1]).
(ii) dimension of treads and risers; reads shall not be less than 255mm, risers shall not be
more than 180mm. (By-law 108 [1])
(iii) widths of steps or stairs which shall be calculated in accordance with By-law 168.
(iv) depth of landing which shall not be less than the width (By-law 106 [3]) of the staircase.
(v) minimum headroom of not less than 2 metre measured vertically from any point over the
full width of the stairs.
12

2.2.3.3 Assembly Point
Every building requires an assembly point for the occupants to gather or to run to in the case of
an emergency. These areas are usually a wide open space adjacent to the building with a safe
distance from potential falling structures.
UBBL 1984
PART VII: FIRE REQUIREMENTS
Exists for institutional and other places of assembly, By-law 178
In buildings classified as institutional or places of assembly, exits to a street or large open
space, together with staircases, corridors and passages leading to such exits shall be located,
separated or protected as to avoid any undue danger to the occupants of the place of assembly
from fire originating in the other occupancy or smoke therefrom.
Classification of places of assembly, By-law 179
Each place of assembly shall be classified according to its capacity as follows:
CLASS CAPACITY
A 1000 persons or more
B 300 to 1000 persons
C 100 to 300 persons
13

The assembly point for all the blocks of Parcel D including Block D7 is at the open square in
front of the building. The square has a large land area of approximately 16000 sq metres and
can easily fit more than 1000 people. It is classified under Class A according to UBBL due to its
large capacity. The square is easily accessible from Block D7 by crossing a road.
Figure 2.6: Parcel D Square (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.7: Location of Assembly Point (Google
Maps, 2018)
14

2.2.3.4 Fire Escape Plans
Fire escape plans are the floor plans of a building which can be found at certain areas of the
building, notably at the lift lobby. These plans includes the current location of the occupant, the
location of the fire lifts, the exits, fire staircases and also the fire active systems. Fire escape
plans are essential in aiding the occupants of a building in the event of an emergency as they
can identify from it the route that they should take. Block D7 provides fire escape plans in every
floor as per required by Bomba laws.
Figure 2.8: Fire Escape Plan at Level 1 (Khoo, 2018)
15

2.2.3.5 Emergency Exit Signages
Emergency Exit Signages are used in horizontal exits as well as the entrance to vertical exits.
The purpose of these signs is to direct and guide occupants of a building towards the
emergency exits during evacuation. The exit signages should be illuminated at all times to
provide readability even in low lighting situations.
UBBL 1984
(1) Storey exits and access to such exits shall be marked by readily visible signs and shall
not be obscured by any decorations, furnishings or other equipment.
(2) A sign reading “KELUAR’ with an arrow indicating the direction shall be placed in every
location where the direction of travel to reach the nearest exit is not immediately
apparent.
(3) Every exit sign shall have the word “KELUAR” in plainly legible letters not less than 150
mm high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than 18 mm wide. The lettering
shall be in red against a black background.
(4) All exit signs shall be illuminated continuously during periods of occupancy.
(5) Illuminated signs shall be provided with two electric lamps of not less than 15 watts each.
In Block D7, the Emergency Exit Signages can be found above the fire door towards the fire
lobby, the door towards the fire escape staircase, as well as above the doors of the office
rooms. The signages used in Block D7 also complies with UBBL as it is illuminated continuously
regardless of the time of the day as shown in the figures above. This ensures that the sign can
be read during emergencies.
Figure 2.9: Exit Sign at the Fire Doors leading into
the Fire Lobby (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.10: Exit Sign at the Door leading into the
Emergency Escape Staircase (Khoo, 2018)
16

2.2.4 PASSIVE CONTAINMENT
Passive containment is the ability of a building to contain a fire once it starts. The containment
of fire is critical to the protection of property and also to the lives of the occupants. Passive
measures for the properties of the building’s construction can be taken to limit the spread of fire
or smoke.
2.2.4.1 Compartmentation
The spread of fire can be restricted by subdividing the building into different compartments. Fire
compartments are separated using compartment walls, compartment floors and compartment
doors which are made of fire resisting properties which hinders the spread of fire. The
compartmented areas includes the areas for the means of escape and the fire risk areas.
LEGEND:
MEANS OF ESCAPE AREA
FIRE RISK AREA
LEGEND:
FIRE RISK AREA
17

In Block D7, the areas for the means of escape and fire risk areas are compartmented in terms of
their doors, walls and flooring. As seen from the diagrams above, the compartmented spaces are
similar throughout the floors. There is a vertical axis for these compartmented spaces.
Areas for the means of escape includes the vertical exits and the fire protected corridor. With
these areas being protected with fire rated materials, evacuees that flee from their office spaces
will be protected from the fire once they reach the horizontal and vertical exits. The spreading of
fire and smoke will be prolonged. This will give evacuees more time to evacuate in the event of a
fire.
The fire risk areas in Block D7 includes the electrical room, telecommunications room and the
air-handling unit room. With compartmentation, if fire occurs from any of these areas, fire and
smoke will not spread as easily.
LEGEND:
FIRE RISK AREA
18

2.2.4.2 Fire Containment
Fire Rated Doors
The most significant and recognisable fire containment feature is the fire rated doors. The main
function of these doors are to inhibit the spread of fire into an area. Fire rated doors are fitted
with fire resisting materials such as fire and smoke seals. These doors are designed with a
hinge on top to swing it close after each use, ensuring the door is close at all times. All fire rated
doors can be opened from the inside without the use of a key.
In Block D7, these doors can be found at the entrance to the fire lobby and also to the
emergency escape staircase, as well as the entrance to the mechanical and services rooms.
The fire rated doors in Block D7 can be found in the form of double flush doors and single flush
doors. These doors have a maximum 1 hour fire resistance.
Diagram 2.17: Components of a Fire Rated Door (nagarealm, 2018)
Figure 2.11: Double flush fire rated door at Block D7 (Khoo, 2018)
Figure 2.12: Single flush fire rated door at Block D7 (Khoo, 2018)
19

Fire Damper
Fire dampers are used to prevent fire and smoke from spreading to other parts of the building
through the ventilation or air-conditioning ducting. When a fire is detected by an alarm, the fire
damper blades are shut tight using electrical motors.
Figure 2.13: Fire damper in the AHU room (Khoo, 2018)
Fire damper
blades
Electric
motor
20
2.3 CONCLUSION
Overall, the passive fire safety system at Block D7 is well designed and complies with all the
requirements of the UBBL and also the Guide to Fire Protection in Malaysia.
In terms of Fire Appliance Access, the road could have been wider to ease the access of a Fire
Engine. However, the width of the road did meet the minimum requirement even though it is a
one lane one way road.
For the means of escape of Block D7, the number of vertical exits provided within the building is
sufficient. The travel distance of an occupant from any work space within a floor to an
emergency escape staircase is short. The arrangement of the vertical exits ensures the crowd
will be well dispersed into different respective directions during the event of a fire.
Passive Containment within Block D7 is well implemented, the necessary areas within the
buildings are compartmented and fire protected. This will slow down the spread of flame and
smoke during the fire through the fire rated structures, ensuring the smoothness of evacuation
and the safety of the occupants.

3.0 ACTIVE FIRE SAFETY SYSTEM
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Active fire protection (AFP) is a group of manual and automatic operated fire system that
requires action or motion in order to work effectively in the event of fire. Apart from construction
materials, the active fire protection system should be included in the process of designing in
compliance with UBBL 1984 to assure the safety of the users and assets in case of a fire.
The active fire safety system can be categorized into four main parts.
- Water-base system
- Non-water-base system
- Alarm and detection system
- Smoke control system
Active fire protection systems are important to prevent and suppress structural fire from
spreading as well as to allow appropriate firefighting actions to be taken.
ACTIVE FIRE SAFETY SYSTEM
Water-Based
System
Non-Water-Based
System
Alarm & Detection
System
Smoke Control
System
Fire Hydrant Carbon Dioxide
Suppression System
Fire Alarm Control
Panel
Hose Reel Portable Fire
Extinguisher
Fire Alarm
Wet Riser System Fireman’s Switch
Automatic Sprinkler
System
Voice Communication
System
Manual Pull Station
Smoke Detector
System
Table 3.1: Overview of Active Fire Safety System (Nicholas, 2018)
21

3.2 ACTIVE PROTECTION
● Water-Based System
● Non-Water-Based System
● Alarm & Detection System
● Smoke Control System
3.2.1 WATER- BASED SYSTEM
Water-based systems operate by using water as the fire extinguishing agents. The system is
located throughout the building to offer assistance during fire hazard. Water-based systems is
also the most common fire safety system used in fire suppression for both industrial and
commercial buildings.
3.2.1.1 External Fire Hydrant
External fire hydrant is an active fire protection measure with the water source provided from
the public water service. The fire hydrant system supplies water with sufficient pressure to be
delivered through pipes throughout the building to the valve network. The system consists of the
water tank, suction piping, fire pumps, and distributed piping system. During a fire emergency,
the firefighters will attach a hose reel to the hydrant. It can also be attached to the fire engine to
boost the water pressure using an engine pump.
The fire hydrant must be in good and working condition with unobstructed access.
FIRE SERVICES ACT 1988
Part IV : Water and Fire Hydrants
Notice of works affecting fire hydrants
(2) All fire hydrants shall be rendered in good working condition upon the completion of any
works carried out by any person under subsection (1).
(3) Any works in or around the vicinity of a fire hydrant affecting access to the fire hydrant,
the position of the fire hydrant in relation to the existing edge of the road, or alignment of
the outlet to the level of the road, shall be deemed to be works affecting a fire hydrant.
Fire hydrants can be separated into two types:
three-way and two-ways. A two-way fire hydrant
consists of two outlets. In Block D7, a two-way fire
hydrant is used and can be found outside the
building. This type of fire hydrant is operated
because Block D7 only requires a water demand
under 750 gallons per minute (2839Ipm).
Figure 3.1: Fire hydrants (Khoo, 2018)
22

3.2.1.2 Wet Riser System
There are two types of main fire-fighting system available for office buildings: dry riser and wet
riser systems. However, due to the size of Block D7, wet riser system is used as the main
fire-fighting system according to the UBBL. The difference between wet riser and dry riser
systems are that wet risers are pressurized and have its own water storage tanks.
Wet Riser
The wet riser supply pipes are located on each floor along with the landing valves to allow
firefighters to access to a ready water supply to combat a fire. All the landing valve are covered
with a coupling adapter. The coupling adapter acts as a lock at the discharge outlet to lock the
canvas hose in place when the need to use arises.
Water
TankPump
Controller
Panel
Pump
Hose
Cradle
Landing
Valve
Riser
Pipe
Landing
Valve
Canvas
Hose
Figure 3.2: Wet riser (Chan, 2018)Diagram 3.2: Location of wet risers on the 3rd floor
(Chan, 2018)
Diagram 3.1: Wet riser system structure (Indiamart, n.d)
23

Fire Hose
Fire hose reels are located to provide a reasonably accessible and controlled supply of water to
combat a potential fire risk. In Block D7, hose reel are located in the fire lobby of each floor with
the wet riser valve.
The hose used in Block D7 is a single jacket synthetic fabric-covered with EPDM rubber inner
lining, flexible hose. This hose ranges in nominal inside diameter from 1.5 to 3 in (38 to 76 mm)
and is designed to operate at pressures up to about 400 psi (2,760 kPa). The standard length is
50 ft (15.24 m). Compared to normal rubber hose, this hose is longer than the conventional
booster hose which is needed in battling a fire in a larger building. It also can be rolled to save
space and are easier to carry.
The fire hose is operated and activated by connecting and opening a landing valve enabling the
water to flow into the hose. The lost of system pressure will activate the pump ensuring
adequate water flow and pressure to provide a water jet of a minimum range of 10 meter from
the nozzle.
Fire hose
Hose cradle
UBBL 1984
Part VIII: Fire Alarms,Fire Detection,Fire Extinguishment and Fire Fighting Access
by-law 231
(1) Wet rising system shall be provided in every building in which the top most floor is more
than 30.5 meters above fire appliance access level
(2) A hose connection shall be provided in each fire fighting access lobby.
24

Water Storage Tank
There are two water storage tanks (for wet riser and automatic sprinkler systems each) located
at the basement of the Block D7 in the pump room together. The purpose of the water storage
tank is to supply water to the wet riser system and maintain water pressure besides supplying
water to the automatic sprinkler system. Reserved water is always fully stored in the tank which
can be readily used in any emergency event.
UBBL 1984
Part VIII: Fire Alarms,Fire Detection,Fire Extinguishment and Fire Fighting Access,
by-law 274
(1) Water storage capacity and water flow rate for fire fighting system and installations shall
be provided in accordance with scale as set out in the Tenth Schedule to these By-Laws
(2) Main water storage tanks within the building, other than for hose reel system, shall be
located at ground , first or second basement levels, with fire brigade pumping inlet
connections accessible to fire appliances.
(3) Storage tanks for automatic sprinkler installation where full capacity is provided without
need for replenishment shall be exempted from the restrictions in their location.
Figure 3.4: Openings to water storage tank (Nicholas, 2018) Figure 3.5: Water storage tank (Nicholas, 2018)
25

3.2.1.3. Wet Riser Pump
The wet riser pump system is controlled by a pump starter panel in Block D7.The pump system
consist of three types of pumps: duty pump, standby pump and jockey pump. The pumps and
water pressure are controlled and regulated by the wet riser pump controller.
All the pump sets are interconnected by pipe manifolds. The duty pump acts as the main pump
to distribute water throughout the building active fire protection systems while the standby pump
acts as a backup pump in case when the main duty pump malfunctions or could not cope with
the water demand. The jockey pump’s purpose is to regulate and compensate the water
pressure when there is a leak or breach causing a drop in water pressure.
Duty
pump
motor
Standby
pump
Figure 3.6: Duty and standby pump (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.7: Jockey pump (Nicholas, 2018) Figure 3.8 Pump controller (Nicholas, 2018)
26

3.2.2.4. Automatic Fire Sprinkler
The automatic sprinkler system are a series of water distribution pipes supplied by pressured
water pump. The system consists of sprinkler heads and water supply pipes. Water sprinkler
pipes are located throughout the whole building, each of them pressurized with water. The
sprinkler heads are designed to activate automatically when a certain temperature is reached
and slow down fire spread speed if not extinguish the fire itself.
In Block D7, the network of water pipes for water sprinkler system are distributed throughout the
whole building except the rooms fill with important data and electrical machineries such as the
computer server and telco rooms. These rooms are fitted with non-water based systems instead
to prevent damage on delicate electronic parts.
Water supply
Pumps
Water distribution
piping system
Fire sprinkler heads
Diagram 3.3: Fire sprinkler (Indiamart, n.d.)
27

Fire Sprinkler Heads
Fire sprinkler heads act as a spray nozzle that releases water around its coverage area. The
sprinkler head consists of a glass bulb which is filled with a certain liquid that is sensitive to heat
acting as a support to the plug which is blocking the outlet of the pipe.. When temperature rises,
the liquid inside the glass bulb quickly expands thus causing the glass bulb to break. Hence, the
support to the plug is broken thus allowing water to be released from the pipe. The water hits
the deflector and splashes in a radial pattern of 3 meters to the fire. The water discharged will
not stop until the pipe outlet is blocked or the water supply cut off.
Each sprinkler head can be designed to its own and activated by different temperatures by
changing the composition of the liquid inside the bulb.
Plug
Heat-sensitive
Glass Bulb
Deflector
Fire
sprinkler
coverage
Diagram 3.4: Fire sprinkler coverage (Chan, n.d.)
Figure 3.9: Fire sprinkler in Block D7 (Chan, 2018) Figure 3.10: Fire sprinkler components (Supply
House, n.d.)
28

3.2.2 NON-WATER BASED SYSTEM
Fire can be smothered using various traditional ways such as water. However, in a case of fire
involving special cases like electrical equipment, water will only make the situation worse.
Hence, non-water based fire fighting systems are required. In Block D7, non-water based
systems used in sensitive areas such as electrical room are carbon dioxide system and portable
fire extinguishers.
3.2.2.1 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Suppression System
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless and chemically inert gas that is both readily
available and electrically non-conductive. The CO2 Suppression System works by removing one
of the factors feeding the fire, oxygen. When a fire is detected, the system releases CO2 into
the space, starving the fire of oxygen. Carbon dioxide are stored in either high pressure spun
steel cylinders (HPCO2 suppression system) or in low-pressure light wall refrigerated tanks
(LPCO2 suppression system).
Carbon dioxide suppression system is highly effective and it requiring minimal cleanup, as CO2
gas can be dispersed by itself compared to other mediums such as foam and water which
needs to be cleaned. Equipments and electrical machineries are also not affected.
However, the system should only be used in minimally occupied or vacant spaces as high
concentrations of CO2 can cause asphyxiation. Thus, CO2 suppression systems can only be
used in specific places.
Diagram 3.5: Low pressure tank (Janus Systems, n.d.)
Diagram 3.6: High pressure tank (Fire Knock, n.d.)
29

3.2.2.2 Portable Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are one of the most common active fire protection devices and is used for
initial suppression of fire to before it escalates into a full scale fire. Hence it is important to have
fire extinguishers in nodes or high-risk areas to be easily accessed.
A portable fire extinguisher consists of a hand-held cylindrical pressure vessel containing an
agent which can be discharged to extinguish and control small scale of fire. There are several
classes of portable fire extinguishers according to its contents.
ABC dry powder extinguisher is the most common fire extinguishers used worldwide. It can be
used for initial outbreak of fire form class A (wood, paper, cloth), class B liquid fire (flammable
liquids), class C gases flammable gases) and electrical-contact fire. This type of fire
extinguisher can be easily found around Block D7 in various spots.
Portable fire extinguishers must be inspected and serviced at least once annually to ensure that
they are always in working order.
UBBL 1984
Part VIII: Fire Alarms, Fire Detection, Fire Extinguishment and Fire Fighting Access,
by-law 227
Portable extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with relevant codes of practice and shall
be sited in prominent position on exit routes to be visible from all directions and similar
extinguishers in a building shall be of the same method of operation.
Diagram 3.7: Location of fire extinguishers on 4th
floor (Chan, 2018)
Figure 3.11: ABC powder fire extinguisher
(NIcholas, 2018)
30

3.2.3 ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEM
Alarm, detection system & devices are the most sensitive active fire protection system as they
are the first system to react in an event of fire emergency. The detection systems will in turn
trigger and activate the rest of the fire protection system as a collective to control and extinguish
the fire.
3.2.3.1 Fire Alarm System
Fire alarm system usually consists of alarm bells, fireman’s switch, voice communication
system, manual pull station (or button) and smoke detectors. The system provide audible and
visual alarm signal for the occupants of the building to warn them in case of a fire. It can be
activated manually using the manual pull station or automatically operated using devices such
as smoke, heat or flame detectors.
Fire Alarm
Fire alarm is a visual (beacon) and audible (siren) alarm. In Block D7, the alarm can be
triggered automatically through smoke detectors, manual pull station or through manual
activation from control panel. It produces a loud methodical sound and a visual beacon to alert
user throughout the building when a fire occurs. The warning siren can also be propagated
using the public address (PA) system.
Diagram 3.8: Location of fire alarm on 4th floor
(Chan, 2018)
Figure 3.12: Fire alarm (Nicholas, 2018)
31

Manual Pull Station
The manual pull station is a call point that enables people to raise a fire alarm in case of fire
emergency by pulling the lever or in Block D7’s case, breaking the glass and pressing the
button to activate the fire alarm system.
Fireman’s Switch
Fireman’s switch is a specialized switch for firefighters to disconnect power from high voltage
devices that may pose a threat in the event of fire emergency. These switches can be found at
the emergency escape staircases and along the corridor of each floor level. These switches can
be easily notified as they are colored in red properly labelled with “firemen switch”.
Figure 3.13: Manual pull station (Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.14: Fireman switch (Willrose Electrical, n.d.)
32

Fireman Intercom System
The fireman intercom is a system using two-way communication in between remote telephone
handsets and the telephone from intercom panel inside fire control room in an event of
emergency.
Smoke Detectors
Smoke detector is one of the fire detection system that detects smoke, which is an indicator of
the presence of a fire. Once smoke is detected, the smoke detector sends signals to the control
room panel which will then activate the alarm in the building.
Block D7 uses photoelectric smoke detectors as one of its fire detection systems all over the
building. Photoelectric smoke detector operates using a light source, a light beam collimating
system and a photoelectric sensor placed in a 90 degree angle. The smoke detector detects
smoke by detecting scattered light particles caused by the smoke particles in the air. Alarm will
triggered when the lights hit the sensor, sending signal to inform the existence of fire to the fire
control room panel.
Figure 3.15: Remote fireman intercom
(Mictron, n.d.)
Figure 3.16: Fireman intercom in control room
(Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.17: Smoke detector
(Nicholas, 2018)
Diagram 3.9: Drawn diagram on process of smoke
detection (Chan, 2018)
Smoke
layer
deflects
light
particles
Light source
Photoelectric
sensor
33

UBBL 1984
Part VII: Fire Requirements, by-law 153
(1) All lift lobbied shall be provided with smoke detectors
(2) Lift not opening into a smoke lobby shall not use door reopening devices controlled by
light beam or photodetectors unless incorporated with a force close feature which after
thirty second of any interruption of the beam cause the door to close within a preset time.
Part VIII: Fire Alarm,Fire Detection, Fire Extinguishment and Fire Fighting Access,
by-law 225
(1) Every building shall be provided with means of detecting and extinguishing fire and with
fire alarms together with illuminated exit signs in accordance with the requirements as
specified in the Tenth Schedule to these By-laws.
Part VIII:Fire Alarms, Fire Detection, Fire Extinguishment and Fire Fighting Access
by-law 237
(1) Fire alarms shall be provided in accordance with the Tenth Schedule to these By-Laws
(2) All premises and building with gross floor area excluding car park and storage area
exceeding 9290 square meters or exceeding 30.5 meters in height shall be provided with
a two-stage alarm system with evacuation (continuous signal) to be given immediately in
the affected section of the premisses while an alert (intermittent signal) be given in
adjoining section.
(3) Provision shall be made for the general evacuation of the premisses by action of a
master control.
by-law 239
There shall be two separate approved continuously electrically supervised voice
communications systems, one a fire brigade communications system and the other a public
address system between the central control station and the following areas.
(a) Lifts, lift lobbies, corridors and staircases.
(b) In every office area exceeding 92.9 square meters in area.
(c) In each dwelling unit and hotel guest room where the fire brigade system may be
combined with the public address system.
by-law 240
(4) Every floor or zone of any floor with a net area exceeding 929 square meters shall be
provided with an electrical isolation switch located within a staircase enclosure to permit
the disconnection of electrical power supply to the relevant floor or zone served.
(5) The switch shall be a type similar to the fireman’s switch specified in the Institution
Electrical Engineers Regulations then in force.
34

3.2.3.2 Smoke Control System
Smoke control systems are a series of vents and ducts to control smoke movement. Most
deaths from fires are caused by smoke asphyxiation. Smoke also reduces the visibility, making
evacuation difficult. Smoke control systems work in two ways: smoke exhaust and stairway
pressurization.
Smoke exhaust works by having vents to suck out smoke from a space or room to prevent an
accumulation of smoke while stairway pressurization works by supplying the stairwell with air,
making the space higher in pressure thus keeping out smoke.
Figure 3.18: Ventilation controls in control room
(Nicholas, 2018)
35

3.2.3.3 Fire Control Room
The fire control room is the central control of a building where important information on the
building can be found here. The control room is where the main fire control panel, intercom
system and digital alarm communicator are located. This room also provides information on fire
detection system such as alarm system, firemen intercom system, fire pump and other
important fire control systems. The signals sent by the fire detection systems when a fire is
detected, will be first received by the control room panel. In case of a fire, the fire signal will be
automatically sent to the nearest fire station or hospital by a digital alarm communicator.
The fire control room is located at the ground floor of Block D7. In the case of Parcel D
government complex, there is a main fire control room monitoring all 10 blocks the complex
located in Block D2. Personnel in charge takes shifts in monitoring the fire detection system in
the control room.
UBBL 1984
by-law 238
Every large premises or building exceeding 30.5 in height shall be provided with a command
and control centre located on the designated floor and shall contain a panel to monitor the
public address, fire brigade communication, sprinkler, waterflow detectors, fire detection and
alarm systems and with a direct telephone connection to the appropriate fire station by-passing
the switchboard.
Figure 3.19: Fire control room (Nicholas,
2018)
Figure 3.20: Fire control panel (Nicholas,
2018)
Figure 3.21: PA system
(Nicholas, 2018)
Figure 3.22: Control panel
(Nicholas, 2018)
36

3.3 CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Block D7 of Parcel D adheres to the UBBL 1984 and Malaysian fire regulations.
Active fire protection systems are vital to the safety of the occupants of the building they
occupy. There is always a need to prepare for any possible contingencies especially in an event
of a fire. With the implementation of active fire protection system, building occupants can be at
their ease of mind.
37

4.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION
4.1 INTRODUCTION
It could be said that without mechanical transportation systems, there will not be tall buildings
nor skyscrapers today. Mechanical transportation systems are systems that transport people or
goods, through different floors or a long distance using a machine such as gears and motors
that uses traction cables or hydraulic pumps (for elevators), or steps and decks (escalators and
travelators). Besides moving people around buildings, mechanical transport systems are also
very safe with regular maintenance.
Mechanical transportations such as elevators are usually grouped together at the core of the
building to ease maintenance and maximise space. Furthermore, the location for access must
also be considered to promote efficiency.
There are several importance of having mechanical transportation systems in buildings:
● To move a group of building users or goods to access different floors or even transverse
longer distance in a shorter time.
● To improve comfort of building users travelling around the building.
● To cater to the needs of the young, the elderly and the disabled to move around the
building.
In tall buildings, it is required by the law to have elevator(s) based on the height and number of
occupants of the building. It is considered the minimum standard to have one elevator for every
four storeys.
UBBL 1984
Part VI: Constructional Requirements, By-law 124
For all non-residential buildings exceeding 4 storeys above or below the main access level at
least one lift must be provided.
In general, buildings more than 15 storeys are divided into groups of elevator serving floors,
called zones. Elevator zoning is to divide the traffic flow from a set of floors to another in order
to reduce round-trip time and increase passenger handling capacity.
Some elevator zonings are for security purposes to deny entry to certain areas of the building.
38

4.2 CASE STUDY
4.2.1 OVERVIEW
There are two main types of elevators namely, hydraulic and traction elevators which is further
divided into geared and gearless elevators. However in Block D7 of Parcel D, only gearless
traction elevators are used. Table 1 shows the details of the elevator in Block D7.
In Block D7, there are 5 passenger elevators and one fire elevator within a single zone since it
is only 10 floors high with relatively low building occupant movement. The elevators are located
at the edge of the building to maximise the floor space.
Type of Elevator: Gearless Traction Elevator (with Machine Room)
Manufacturer: Schindler Ltd. (Model 3300)
Manufacturing Number: 56209ES
Registration Number: PMA 35725
Rated Capacity: 1150 kg
Max Passengers: 17 passengers
Rated Speed: 1 - 3 m/s
Diagram 4.1: Position of elevator cores throughout Block D7 (Chan, 2018)
Ground floor
Ninth floor
Fourth floor
Third floor
Tabel 4.1: Specification of the Elevator (Chan, 2018)
39

FACTORIES AND MACHINERY ACT 1967
FACTORIES AND MACHINERY (ELECTRIC PASSENGER AND GOODS LIFT)
REGULATIONS, 1970
Part II: Design, Construction, Installation and Tests, Regulation 30
(1) Every new lift or substantially altered new lift shall be tested by the suppliers or erectors
of such lift before it is put into service, with the contract load in the car. During such test
the Inspector shall require that any brake, terminal stopping device, buffer, safety gear,
overspeed governor or other apparatus be caused to function.
Part III: Maintenance, Regulation 31
(1) The owner of every lift shall ensure that such lift is maintained.
(2) For the purpose of complying with paragraph (1) of this regulation such owner shall enter
into an agreement with an approved firm for the periodic examination and maintenance
of such lift. For the purposes of this regulation, an approved firm means a firm which has
satisfied the Chief Inspector that it employs persons suitably qualified and trained
(hereinafter referred to as the competent person) and controls equipment and facilities to
ensure a proper standard of lift examination, service and maintenance:
Provided that such agreement shall not relieve the owner from the responsibility of
maintaining the lift well enclosure where such enclosure forms an integral part of the
building in which the lift is installed.
(5) Such person shall thoroughly examine the lift at least once in every three months and
cause the lift to be serviced and adjusted once in every month.
Before the occupancy of the elevators, the new elevator cars must be tested by the supplier or
the erector with actual load inside the elevators and evaluated by an inspector before receiving
its operational permit. Besides that, regular maintenance are needed to be examined once
every 3 months and serviced once every month to ensure the elevator system works smoothly
and to ensure the safety of the elevator users.
Figure 4.1: Operational permit (Chan, 2018) Figure 4.2: Notice showing the weight limit (Chan, 2018)
40

UBBL 1984
Part VII: Fire Requirements, By-law 153
(1) All lift lobbies shall be provided with smoke detectors.
4.2.2 ELEVATOR LOBBY
An elevator lobby is a node where elevator users wait for the elevator to arrive and it is also the
space where elevator users exit and enter the elevator cabin. As elevators are grouped facing
each other, it is vital to have enough space (at least two elevator cabin depth or 3.5m to 4m in
width) in the elevator lobby to allow elevator users to wait and move in a two-directional
manner. It is also important to take note that the maximum walking distance to a lift lobby is
45m.
Moreover, it is also necessary to have proper lighting and ventilation to have comfort for waiting
passengers, besides smoke detectors and fire-sprinklers for active fire control.
Smoke
Detectors
Air-conditioning
VentFire
Sprinklers
Lighting
Diagram 4.2: Elevator lobby location on the third floor
41

An elevator lobby should also have:
● Floor Designators to show the floor level.
● Hall Lanterns to show the direction the elevator is moving.
● Elevator Call Buttons to call for an elevator cabin (must have Braille incorporated into it).
● Fire Escape Plan to show the evacuation route in case of a fire.
Floor
Designator
Hall Lantern
Elevator Call
Buttons
Fire Escape
Plan
42

4.2.3 GEARLESS TRACTION ELEVATOR SYSTEM
Gearless Traction Elevator Systems are consisted of either a DC or AC motor which is directly
connected to a brake wheel and the driving sheave. The elevator hoist ropes are connected
around the driving sheave. A counterweight is also used to reduce the strain on the motors by
offsetting the weight of the elevator cabin and the passengers, thus making it more efficient.
As the name implies, this system does not use gears as it is connected directly to the driving
sheave. This means that the elevator cabin can travel in a faster speed with a more powerful
motor.
The advantages of gearless systems over geared systems is because gearless systems are
more efficient, quieter, requires less maintenance and have a longer life durability, despite the
higher initial costs.
Diagram 4.3: Gearless Traction Elevators (aboutelevator, 2015)
43

4.2.3.1 Elevator Motor Room
A motor room is the room where the elevator motor and controls are housed. This room is
usually located above the elevator shaft. Due to the extra weight and stress from the weight of
the elevator motor machine and cabin combined, the floor slab of the motor room is further
reinforced.
Besides that, the motor room must be well-ventilated and cool (5-40°C) to prevent the control
panels from overheating. The room must also be well-lit and clear from unnecessary refuse and
objects unrelated to the motor room.
The motor room must also be locked from unauthorised access and warning displayed at the
door. A duplicate key is to be stored beside the motor room in case of emergencies.
Figure 4.5: Warning signs at the entrance of
the motor room (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.6: Elevator motor resting on
bedplates and concrete (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.7: Air-conditioned, clean
and well illuminated motor room
(Chan, 2018)
Diagram 4.4: Elevator motor room location on the roof (Chan, 2018)
44

Hoisting Motor
The hoisting motor, an electrical motor is the main component in moving the elevator cabin
downwards or upwards. The electric motor is directly connected to the driving sheave and
break. Only cable rope machines are allowed in Malaysia to hoist the elevator cabin as neither
flat belt or chain-driven machine are allowed for passenger elevators. In Parcel D, all motors,
driving sheaves and governor are locked in a steel cage to prevent accidents.
Figure 4.9: Close up of gearless motor
machine (Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.8: Gearless motor machine
(Chan, 2018)
Motor
Brake
Driving Sheave
The driving sheave is the component which supports and grips the cable rope which in turn is
connected to the elevator cabin. In short, the driving sheave is the fulcrum of the pulley system.
The elevator cabin descends when the driving sheave rotates in one direction and ascends
when it rotates at the other direction.
Figure 4.10: Driving sheave (Chan, 2018) Figure 4.11: Cable rope (Chan, 2018)
45

Overspeed Governor
The overspeed governor is the primary safety device of the elevator system. The governor
moves at the same speed as the driving sheave but acts as a stopgap when the elevator moves
too fast, usually when rapidly descending.
When the elevator goes beyond the predetermined speed limit, it activates the first switches
which cuts power to the motor thus activating the braking system through centrifugal forces. If
the elevator is still travelling fast, a second set of switches are triggered. This triggers the break
on the governor ropes.
The switches have to manually resetted by a skilled technician to restore power to the elevators.
Figure 4.12: Governor in the motor room (Chan, 2018)
(2) When the elevator travels
over the speed limit, the
catchweight is hit with more
force thus bounced harder
and engages the switch.
(3) The switch blocks the
catchweight which in turn
blocks the disc and the
governor stops moving and
stops the elevator.
(1) The catchweight constantly
hit the spinning governor disc
which makes it bounce off it a
little.
Diagram 4.5: Governor operation during an emergency
(Chan, 2018)
46

Cable Rope Openings
Openings are required for the cable rope from the driving sheave to be connected to the
elevator cabin.
Control Panel Cabinet
Besides the gearless traction motors, the control panel cabinets are also in the motor room due
to the large size needed to house the electrical components and to ease the maintenance of it.
It is vital for the electronic parts to be cool to prevent overheating. The information from the
elevators and commands from the control buttons and control room are exchanged here. This is
the ‘brain’ of the elevator system.
Figure 4.14: Control Panel Cabinets
Figure 4.13 : Cable rope opening
47

Elevator Main Control Board
The elevator controls contains the inspection boards where all the electronic control boards are.
The electronic control boards must have strong anti-static and anti-interference capabilities for
security purposes. There are two main components in the inspection board: main controller
board and elevator group control system.
The main controller board functions to process the commands from the elevator cabin, does
weight compensation and control of the traction motor. This component is responsible for the
comfort, accuracy, steadiness and smooth run of the elevator cabin.
The elevator control system acts as a collective coordinator of a group of elevators. It relays and
communicates data from the elevator lobby (when someone presses the elevator call button) to
the main controller board.
In the case of Block D7, the controls are also connected and monitored in the fire control room.
Emergency Power Operation (EPR)
During an emergency when the power supply is interrupted, an emergency back-up power will
be engaged. An emergency landing device guides the elevators one-by-one to the ground floor
for the occupants to exit.
Figure 4.18: Emergency landing
device
Figure 4.15: Inspection
board
Figure 4.16: Close-up of inspection board Figure 4.17: Elevator monitor in fire control room
48

REGULATIONS, 1970
PART II: Design, Construction, Installation and Tests, Regulation 8
(2) A flat belt or chain-driven machine shall not be used to drive any passenger lift.
(6) Every drum, sheave or pulley shall be of cast iron or steel and shall have machined rope
grooves; and in the case of every overhung pulley or sheave suitable flanges of rope
guards shall be provided.
(12) (a) Every lift machine and associated equipment shall be effectively supported.
(1) A machine room shall be provided for, and restricted to, the housing of the lift machine
and
associated equipment.
(2) (e) be provided with permanent electric lighting and the illumination shall not be less than
ten foot candles at floor level. At least one socket and plug for a hand-lamp shall be
provided. The light switch shall be fixed adjacent to the machine room entrance;
(f) be kept clear of refuse and shall not be used for the storage of articles or materials
other than those required for the maintenance or operation of the lift;
(g) be locked against unauthorised access. A duplicate key shall be provided and
retained under a glass-fronted cabinet adjacent to the entrance:
(3) The following notice shall be exhibited in a permanent place adjacent to the entrance of
every machine room:
BAHAYA
BILEK JENTERA
DI-LARANG MASOK
DENGAN TIADA KEBENARAN
UBBL 1984
(1) On failure of mains power of lifts shall return in sequence directly to the designated floor,
commencing with the fire lifts, without answering any car or landing calls and park with
doors open.
(2) After all lifts are parked the lifts on emergency power shall resume normal operation:
Provided that sufficient emergency power is available for operation of all lifts, this mode
of operation need not apply.
49

4.2.3.2 Elevator Shaft
The elevator shaft is a vertical void where the elevator cabin travels between different levels.
Elevator shafts must be fireproofed and be large enough for other components besides the
elevator cabin.
Guide Rails & Roller Guides
The guide rail acts a a guide to ensure the elevator cabin does not move around and only in a
vertical direction. It also acts as a stabiliser when the elevator cabin moves and a safety feature
in case of emergencies.
Roller guides are rollers which are in contact with the guide rail.
Figure 4.19: Guard rail inside the elevator shaft.
(greenteamenv, n.d.)
Diagram 4.6 : Elevator shaft components
Figure 4.20: Roller guide shoes (indiamart,
n.d.)
50

Safety Brakes
The safety brakes acts as a brake of the elevator in case of emergencies such as moving too
fast or the hoisting cables snapping. It works by gripping the guard rail to impede the movement
of the elevator cabin.
There are two types of safety brakes: instantaneous and progressive types. Block D7 uses the
progressive type as it is safer because compared to the instantaneous type which works by
immediately stopping the elevator cabin. The progressive type slows down the elevator cabin
before stopping it completely.
Hoisting Rope
The hoisting rope is the roping to move and supporting the elevator cabin and counterweights. It
is attached to the crosshead of elevator cabin to the driving sheave in the motor room then to
the counterweight. The hoisting cables are normally grouped in 3 to 7 ropes.
The roping system can be defined as the arrangement of cables supporting the elevator and
which has many types or arrangements as follows. Block D7 adopts a double wrap and 2:1
roping method as it uses a faster gearless motor. The hoisting cables are grouped into 4 ropes
Figure 4.22: Hoisting cable
grouping (Chan, 2018)
Diagram 4.7: Elevator safety brakes
(electrical-knowhow, 2012)
Figure 4.21: Progressive-type Safety Brake
(kisa-global, n.d/)
51

Double wrap system wounds over the driving sheave twice to create better friction as a safety
measure for gearless motors as it moves faster than slower geared motor using single wrap
system.
2:1 roping method means the hoisting rope connects to the elevator cabin or counterweight on
one end and the top of the shaft at the other end. This method reduces the strain on the ropes
by half, which is important as high speed movements produces greater strain.
Counterweight
As the name implies, the counterweight is a counter to the elevator cabin and balances the
elevator system. With the counterweight, the motor does not need to carry the entire weight of
the elevator cabin itself. Instead the motor only needs to provide a nudge to move the elevator
cabin. THe elevator system acts as a pulley system where when the counterweight rises, the
elevator cabin descends and vice versa. This reduces the strain on the motor, rope and braking
system. The counterweight is made up of stacks of steel plates which number and weight
depends on the elevator cabin.
Figure 4.23: Counterweight (pinsdaddy, n.d.)
Diagram 4.8: Wrapping systems (apicsllc, n.d.)
52

Landing Door
The landing door is a fixed door to prevent people from falling into the elevator shaft. The
landing door consists of a motor above it. The motor receives input from the elevator cabin pulls
the doors using a series of rollers to close or open it. The landing door can be manually opened
by unlocking the Escutcheon tube using an emergency key.
Elevator Pit & Buffer
The elevator pit is located at the bottom of the elevator shaft. The elevator pit stores various
components such as the governor sheave, buffers for the elevator and counterweights, ladder
and wirings. It is important for the pit to have drainage, waterproof, lighted and ventilated while
kept clean and dry.
The buffer is to soften the impact of the elevator cabin in case the elevator plunges involuntarily.
There are two types of buffers: oil and spring buffers. Oil buffers are used in Block D as they
support higher speed elevators compared to spring buffers. However, oil buffers require
constant maintenance.
Figure 4.27: Elevator pit (spec7group, 2017)
Figure 4.25: Elevator motor and operator (schmelevator, 2016)Figure 4.24: Landing door
(Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.26: Oil buffer (hydroniclift,
n.d.)
53

REGULATIONS, 1970
(1) No piping, conduct or equipment other than that forming part of the lift or necessary for
its maintenance shall be installed in any lift well or lift well enclosure.
(5) (a) Every lift pit shall be soundly constructed. The floor of the lift pit shall be substantially
level and, where necessary, provision shall be made for permanent drainage.
(1) Every landing opening in any lift well enclosure shall be protected by a door which shall
extend the full height and width of the opening. Such landing door when fully open shall
leave no portion of the lift well unprotected at the sides of the car.
(1) Every traction drive lift shall be provided with a counterweight.
(1) Every lift car and counterweight shall be guided throughout its travel by means of rigid
steel guides of round or T-section and of such length that it is not possible for the car or
counterweight shoes to run off the guides.
(1) Every lift car shall be provided with one or more safety gear which shall, singly or
combined, be capable of stopping and sustaining the lift car with the contract load.
Safety gears shall be fitted to the car frame, and at least one safety gear shall be located
within or below the lower members of the car frame.
(1) A governor shall be fitted to operate the safety gear of every lift car having a travel
between terminal landings greater than twenty feet.
(1) Buffers shall be installed under every car and counterweight and shall be located
symmetrically with reference to the vertical centre line of the car frame or the
counterweight frame within a tolerance of two inches, and shall be so arranged that the
car or counterweight in normal operation does not engage them.
54

(2) Every traction-drive lift shall be fitted with not less than three ropes, independent of one
another, and every drum-drive lift shall be fitted with not less than two ropes,
independent of one another, for the car and not less than two ropes, independent of one
another, for the counterweight.
UBBL 1984
Where openings to lift shafts are not connected to protected lobbies, such lift shafts shall be
provided with vents of not less than 0.09 square metre per lift located at the top of the shaft.
Where the vent does not discharge directly to the open air the lift shafts shall be vented to the
exterior through a duct of the required FRP as for the lift shafts.
(1) Every opening in a lift shaft or lift entrance shall open into a protected lobby unless other
suitable means of protection to the opening to the satisfaction of the local authority is
provided.
(2) Landing doors shall have a FRP of not less than half the FRP of the hoistway structure
with a minimum FRP of half hour.
(3) No glass shall be used for in landing doors except for vision in which case any vision
panel shall be glazed with wired safety glass, and shall not be more than 0.0161 square
metre and the total area of one or more vision panels in any landing door shall not more
than 0.0156 square metre.
55

4.2.3.3 Elevator Cabin
The elevator cabin is a platform (or a box) to transport its occupants along a vertical shaft in a
safe, fast and comfortable manner. The elevator cabins in Block D7 does not have emergency
escape hatch as newer models omitted it because of safety concerns over the passengers
falling over into the elevator shaft.
Elevator Frame
The elevator frame (or sling) is the main structural framework of the elevator cabin to support it
as a whole. The hoisting rope is connected to it.
Diagram 4.9: Elevator cabin (hitachi, 2017)
1. Upper transom
2. Lower transom
3. Adjustable height side frame
4. Lower isolation
5. Roller guide shoe
6. Sliding guide show with
lubricator
7. Upper isolation
8. Overload inductive sensor
9. Limit switch
10. Actuator lever
11. Safety gear
12. Braking system
Diagram 4.10: Elevator frame (electrical-knowhow, 2012)
56

Travelling Cable
The travelling cable is a flexible cable which connects the electrical wiring, power supply and
communications to the elevator cabin. It is loose to allow it to move flexibly across floors.
Figure 4.28: Travelling cable (elevation, n.d.)
Diagram 4.11: Elevator apron (pinterest, n.d.)
Elevator Apron
The elevator apron is a safety mechanism to act as a barrier in case that the elevator cabin
doors open without the elevator cabin being at the landing doors.
57

Figure 4.29: Elevator door sensor
(Chan, 2018)
Figure 4.30: Cabin operating panel
(Chan, 2018)
Elevator Door Sensor
There are infrared sensors at the doors of the elevator cabin to detect obstructions and prevent
the elevator cabin doors from closing. Block D7 elevator cabin doors do not have a safety door
edge (SDE) as newer elevators omitted it due to safety issues.
Diagram 4.12: Multi-beam door sensor
(bonexlifts, n.d.)
Cabin Operating Panel (COP)
The cabin operating panel is the control panel in the elevator cabin. It includes the floor selector
buttons, elevator door controls, emergency button, stop button, intercom and key switch (for
maintenance). All buttons must include Braille for the blind.
When the emergency button is pressed, the alarm will start ringing and the fire control room
alerted. The intercom system can connect calls to the fire control room.
Figure 4.31: Elevator monitors in the
fire control room (Chan, 2018)
Emergenc
y button
Floor selector
buttons
Door control
buttons
Intercom
Stop
button
Key switch
Intercom
controls
Elevator
emergency
indicators
58

Diagram 4.13: Position of fire elevator on the third floor (Chan, 2018)
4.2.4 FIRE ELEVATORS
Fire elevators are the same model elevators as typical passenger elevators except it has a
feature called the Fire Service Mode (EFS). The EFS allows firefighters to bypass the
emergency protocols and use the elevators during a fire. Fire elevators are also required to face
into a protected fire lobby.
Typical elevators are forced to descend to the ground floor and the doors kept open. The
elevators will no longer receive any calls until it is reset. Fire elevators have a bypass panel with
can be activated with a fire service key for firefighters to use the elevators. Once the elevator
reaches its desired floor, the doors will not open until the firefighter holds the open door button
in case of a burning floor. The doors can be hold open and remain at the current floor by using
the hold position of the key switch. Once the key is turned off, the elevator door closes and
returns to the ground floor.
REGULATIONS, 1970
(1) Every lift car shall comprise a platform, a roof, a car enclosure, gate or door and a
supporting
frame.
(1) A door or gate shall be provided at every entrance to a lift car. Every car door or gate
when fully closed shall-
(a) in the case of a passenger lift, guard the full width and height of the car entrance
opening and shall not be less than six feet and six inches high;
(2) No lift car shall have more than two entrances.
(3) (a) Every power operated car door or gate shall be capable of being opened manually.
59

4.3 CONCLUSION
Overall, the elevators in Block D7 are in compliance with the Factories and Machinery Act 1967
and UBBL 1984.
The arrangement of elevators fulfills the ease of travel (its position although not centralised, the
office is not too large and the elevators are closer to the other blocks) and maintenance. The
elevator lobby is large enough for the passengers to wait comfortably while being safe from fire.
The motor room is clean and tidy while it adheres to have proper ventilation, lighting and
structural integrity.
The elevator cabin model is constructed based on the regulations stated in Regulation 14 and
Regulation 15 by having a platform, a roof, a car enclosure, gate or door and a supporting
frame while having not more than 2 entrances of an elevator (Block D7 elevators uses only one
entrance).
The fire elevator also adheres to the standard operating procedures stated in UBBL 1984
by-law 155.
UBBL 1984
(1) The fire mode of operation shall be initiated by a signal from the fire alarm panel which
may be activated automatically by one of the alarm devices in the building or manually.
(2) If mains power if available all lifts shall return in sequence directly to the designated floor,
commencing with the fire lifts, without answering any car or landing calls, overriding the
emergency stop button inside the car, but not any other emergency or safety devices,
and park with doors open.
(3) The fire lifts shall then be available for use by the fire brigade on operation of the
fireman’s switch.
(4) Under this mode of operation, fire lifts shall only operate in response to car calls but not
to landing calls in a mode of operation in accordance with by-law 154.
60

5.0 AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM
5.1 INTRODUCTION
According to the HVAC Systems Design Handbook (Third Edition), air-conditioning is defined as
the simultaneous control of temperature, humidity, radiant energy, air motion, and air quality
within a space for the purpose of satisfying the requirements of comfort or a process. It is a
combined process of altering the properties of air to more favorable conditions.It conditions the
air, transports it, and introduces it to the conditioned place. It provides heating and cooling from
central plants or rooftop units. It helps to keep building users more comfortable inside than they
are outside the building. Due to Malaysia hot and humid climates, it has now become a need to
achieve human comfort.
Importance of Air-Conditioning System
Air conditioners system serve a multitude of purposes, making them an important appliance in
the building. Air conditioning system distribute the conditioned air which containing sufficient
outdoor air, to the conditioned space. Control and maintain the indoor environmental
parameters which are temperature,humidity, cleanliness, air movement, sound level and
pressure differential between the conditioned space and surroundings. It circulate and filtered
clean air into a building. Then, the conditions of a working environment will improve the human
efficiency. With air-conditioning, more comfortable atmospheric conditions will create a view to
making users more comfortable and efficient.
Factors for Using Air-Conditioning System
- An effective air-conditioning system provide comfort for the users in the building.
- Thermal Comfort
- Performance of machinery and workers
- The cleanliness of the air affect users’ health
Operation of AC System
As all the principle of air conditioning systems are same whereby the heat is removed from one
area and replaced with chilled dry air and expel the hot air from outside atmosphere.
Basically, air is drawn over the condenser which containing the refrigerant gas. Base on the
system, the evaporator contains the subcooled refrigerant and air blows through its veins to
release the chilled dry air into the room. The condenser contains a high temperature gas that
once again air blown through the veins collecting the heat as it passes through then expelling to
outside.
61

TYPES OF CYCLE
The main function of the air conditioning system is to release heat from the air inside the room
into the outdoor air. There are two cycles involved in this system which includes Refrigerant
cycle and air cycle.
Refrigerant cycle
Refrigerant cycle is a process of removing heat from low temperature to a high
temperature.This type of system release heat from interior of the building then release it into the
environment.
Principles of Refrigeration
- Gases release heat when changed state from gas to liquid.
- Liquid absorb heat when changed state from liquid to gas.
COMPONENTS OF A REFRIGERATOR CYCLE
Compressor
It compresses the refrigerant vapor from the evaporator and pumps the refrigerant throughout
the system. Refrigerant vapor enters the compressor through the suction valve and fills the
cylinder. This refrigerant absorbs the heat in the evaporator and changing state from liquid to
vapor.
Diagram 5.1 : Basic refrigerant cycle (swtc, n.d.)
Figure 5.1: Compressor (macsworldwide, 2010)
62

Condenser
Condensers located after the compressor and before the expansion valve. The refrigerant
changes from vapor to liquid in the condenser.The water temperature of the condensed liquid
increase and connected to the cooling tower via condensed water pipe. It is to remove the heat
from the refrigerant which was picked up in the evaporator.
Evaporator
It is located between the expansion valve and the compressor, its collects the unwanted heat
from the building and move into the refrigerant so that it can be sent to the cooling tower. Then,
it is pumped around the building to provide air conditioning and returns to the evaporator
bringing with unwanted heat from the building.
Expansion Valve
Expansion valve is to control the refrigerant flow in a refrigerant system. They help to facilitate
the change of higher pressure of liquid refrigerant in the condensing unit to lower pressure gas
refrigerant in the evaporator.
Figure 5.2: Condenser (shopify, n.d.)
Figure 5.3: Condenser (glenwoodauto, n.d.)
Figure 5.4: Thermostatic expansion valve (imimg, n.d.)
Diagram 5.2: Thermostatic expansion valve
(acmobilmandala, 2017)
63

Air Cycle
Air cycle is a process to distribute treated air into the room that needs to be conditioned. Heat
inside the room is removed when the return air is absorbed by the evaporator. Distributed of air
can be either through ducts or chilled water pipes. Heat removed and slowly the internal air
becomes cooler.
COMPONENTS OF AIR CYCLE
Air Handling Unit
Air Handling Unit (AHU) functioned for heating, cooling, humidifying, dehumidifying, filtering and
distributing air. It is also recycles some of the returned air from the building.
Air Filter
Air Filter is used to clean or remove solid contaminants such as smoke, pollen, dust, grease to
ensure better air quality for users. The filters usually placed on the return air of the air
conditioning system. Air that contained contaminants will be trapped at the filters. Then, clean
air released into the space together with cool air.
Diagram 5.3: Components of Air Cycle (clipartxtras, n.d.)
Figure 5.5: Filters (Acfilters, n.d.)
64

Ductwork
Ductwork were concealed inside the ceiling. It is part of a HVAC system including the supply,
return, outside air, relief air and exhaust air ducts.
Diffuser
Air diffusers are quite common in heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems. It is used to
deliver both conditioning and ventilating air then distributed the air flow in desired directions
evenly.
Blower Fan
Air conditioner blower is to produce air movement to the space that is being conditioned
especially remove heat from the condenser. It is commonly used in Air handling unit (AHU) as
small and large quantity of air can be moved efficiency. They are four types of fan commonly
used which are propeller fan, centrifugal fan, vane-axial fan and tube-axial fan.
Diagram 5.4: Air Handling Fan (quickdraft, n.d.)
Figure 5.6: Air blower (imimg, n.d.)
Figure 5.7: Air Conditioning Duct (imimg, n.d.)
Figure 5.8: Air Diffuser (premierheatingcooling, 2018)
65

5.2 CASE STUDY
5.2.1 OVERVIEW
The air conditioning systems in Block D7 are centred around energy efficiency. The systems
used reduces excessive usage of energy and they are only applied for specific conditions at the
time same, ensuring the comfort and safety of the users within the building.
5.2.2 TYPES OF AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
5.2.2.1 District Cooling
The air-conditioning systems of the buildings in Parcel D run on district cooling, The central
source that is supplying cooling to the blocks of Parcel D originates from Gas District Cooling
(GDC). Due to this system, there are no individual chillers nor cooling towers in the building.
Through this system, water is chilled at the nearest chiller plant located near Alamanda
Shopping Complex. Chilled water is pumped through a long underground piping system.
Cold air is then distributed within the office building via typical fan coil unit and Air Handling Unit.
Warm air from the office returns to the heat exchangers for a continuous closed loop cooling
process again.
District cooling is beneficial to the buildings of Parcel D, Putrajaya because it enhances
operating flexibility that it is not troublesome to regulate the temperature of each chiller
individually and there is no polluted noise from the air-conditioning system, making it a suitable
applicant in commercial buildings such as the government buildings in Parcel D.
Diagram 5.5 : District cooling system on Block D7 (Diagram by Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.9: The pipes that direct chilled water supply and return flow from the main central chiller plant. The pipes are connected
with every AHU room in each floor of the entire Block D7. (Carmen, 2018)
66

5.2.2.2 Variable Air Volume (VAV)
VAV air conditioning is an all air system which can specifically satisfy the individual cooling
requirements of multiple zones such as office buildings like this. It is an energy-efficient system.
In comparison to constant air volume (CAV) systems, this system supplies air at a constant
temperature from central plant to one or more VAV terminal units in rooms with different cooling
loads. The unit contains a thermostatically controlled damper which regulates the amount of air
entering the zone in response to the requirement for cooling.
VAV is able to provide the required level of cooling to any number of zones within a building
simultaneously. VAV systems are particularly efficient as a result to operate the main supply at
reduced speeds, when the volume of air required by various zones is low. Most types of VAV
terminal unit can incorporate a heating device. It boosts the temperature of the supply air if
conditions within the zone require it.
In Block D7, when temperature in a room rises, it signal the VAV terminal box to trigger the
setting point to release more air. Then, the air handling unit will adjust accordingly and detect
the increase in pressure to reduce the energy amount. The damper inside the VAV will then
help to rotate and enlarge the opening to allow more air volume to go through.
Figure 5.10 : VAV terminal unit located inside AHU
Room at the corner of the wall. (Carmen, 2018)
Diagram 5.6: VAV controls air volume supplied by the AHU to meet the efficient temperature needed by the office.
(Sketch by Carmen, 2018)
67

5.2.3 AIR-CONDITIONING DEVICES
5.2.3.1 Air Handling Unit (AHU)
In Block D7, there are a total of 197 Air-Handling Units. Each level has 2 units. These units
are contained inside rooms called AHU rooms. However, according to the Facilities Manager,
the AHU room is too small that it affects the ergonomics of usage of the space. Especially in
terms of maintenance. The maintenance crew experiences difficulty in moving AHU
components in and out of the room.
Figure 5.11 : Outside AHU Room at the end of the
corridor. The desk at the side causes cramping and
inconvenience in entering this room. (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.12 : The space inside the AHU room is small. This causes inconvenience
when it comes to maintenance of the components of the AHU unit. (Carmen, 2018)
Desk - Obstruction
68

The Vertical Draw Through Air Handling Unit consist of housing which is the metal insulation
shell that encases all the components within, cooling coil to cool and humidify the air, the fan to
circulate the air and panel filters to remove particles of any size from the room, and humidifier.
Panel filters provide low efficiency filtration.
Figure 5.15: Panel Filters (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.14 : Brand name for the AHU unit (Carmen, 2018)
Diagram 5.7: Vertical Draw Through Air Handling Unit (Sketch by Chan, 2018)
Figure 5.13 : The supply air and return air ducts
(Carmen, 2018)
Framework
Filter medium
The type of Air Handling Unit used in Block D7 is a vertical Draw Through type. In a Draw
Through type, the fan is located after the cooling coil, which means the section before the fan
has negative pressure. This type is a suitable selection for high discharge temperatures such as
buildings like this. The brand of the AHU used in Block D7 is Dunham Bush.
69

The control panels ensure the smooth operation and regulation of the AHU unit. The exterior of
the control panel has indicators of each AHU unit and measuring meters for regulation. This
control panel regulate the unit in terms of air flow rate, humidity, supply air temperature, mixed
air temperature and air quality.
The variable speed drive that is operating inside this control panel is used to manage fluid,
reduce operating cost of Block D7 by optimising energy consumption without affecting the
comfort of users.It contains a safety function called the Power Removal Function that stops the
motor while preventing accidental restarts.
Figure 5.16 : AHU control panel (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.17 : Variable speed drive (Carmen, 2018)
70

5.2.3.2 Diffuser
For ventilation and air-conditioning systems to be more effective and air distributed evenly
within the occupied space. Air diffusers used to supply air and control of airflow and direction. In
Block D7, directional four way diffusers and two slots linear diffuser were mainly used. It is also
designed to mix conditioned air with the air which is already in the space. Diffusers are
designed to distribute the air into equal amount and release it into the space. Providing users a
comfortable environment by removing the heat and providing uniform distribution of cooled air.
Figure 5.19 : Two slots linear diffuser (Aw, 2018)
Figure 5.18: Four ways diffuser used in rooms and corridors (Carmen, 2018)
Figure 5.20: Two slots linear diffuser used in the corridor
in front the lifts (Carmen, 2018)
5.2.3.3 Air Cooled Split Unit
Air cooled split units are a preferable device for specific areas. They are quick to install without
disturbing the other components of the room. Inverter units can achieve the desired temperature
at a faster rate. In this case, the split units are found to be located in the elevator motor room,
where most machines and controls are operating constantly for long hours each day. The air is
blown in the warm room and cooling effect produced to prevent the motor overheated.
Figure 5.21: Air cooled split unit in the elevator motor room (Aw, 2018)
71

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