Basis of Design
We prepare Basis of Design (BoD) reports that set the technical foundation for fire protection in high-risk and complex facilities such as fuel tank terminals, industrial plants, mixed-use developments, and critical infrastructure. A BoD is an essential early deliverable that aligns owners, designers, and authorities on goals, performance criteria, and system requirements before detailed design begins.
Our BoD services combine deep engineering expertise with regulatory insight. We reference applicable fire and building codes including the International Fire Code (IFC), NFPA standards, and API Recommended Practices, as well as locally adopted Fire and Life Safety Codes. Where industrial processes are involved, we are conversant with Process Safety Management (PSM) guidelines from CCPS and related international guidance. The result is a BoD that is technically sound, clearly justified, and ready for AHJ review, ensuring compliant and efficient downstream design and procurement.
Our Expertise Covers
Hazard and Facility Assessment:
Review of facility layouts, occupancy classifications, and credible fire and explosion hazards, including flammable liquid storage, combustible materials, and operational risks.
Codes and Standards Compliance:
Identification and application of applicable codes and standards, including NFPA 11 (Foam), NFPA 13 (Sprinklers), NFPA 15 (Water Spray), NFPA 16 (Foam-Water Sprinklers), NFPA 20 (Fire Pumps), NFPA 22 (Water Tanks), NFPA 24 (Private Fire Mains), and NFPA 30 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids).
Fire Water Demand and System Definition:
Estimation of site firewater demand under worst-case scenarios such as full-surface tank fires, truck loading rack deluge activation, and vessel exposure protection, including specifications for fire pumps, water storage, and hydraulic system requirements.
System Conceptualization:
Defining system strategies for each facility area, from foam-water deluge systems and sprinkler networks to clean agent suppression and exposure protection, including AR-AFFF foam applications.
Performance Objectives and Assumptions:
Documentation of system sizing, hydraulic methodologies, safety factors, and assumptions to ensure transparency and traceability for future design and AHJ review.
Client and Stakeholder Alignment:
Facilitating early agreement among developers, consultants, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), streamlining permitting and approval processes.
Our BoD reports combine technical rigor with regulatory insight, providing a reliable blueprint for detailed design, procurement, and implementation of robust fire protection systems in high-risk industrial environments.
