Law Summary
Scope and Purpose of the Resolution
- The resolution addresses issues raised by stakeholders, including the United Architects of the Philippines, concerning seating capacity in theaters and performing arts centers.
- It seeks to harmonize the Fire Code of the Philippines (RA 9514) with international standards, specifically the NFPA 101-Life Safety Code and the National Building Code of the Philippines.
Existing Seating Capacity Limitations under RA 9514 IRR
- Section 10.2.8.2 para H(1) limits seating in public assembly buildings to 14 seats between aisles and 7 rows of seats opening onto an aisle on one side only.
Provisions of NFPA 101-Life Safety Code (2015)
- Allows more than 14 seats between aisles if aisle widths increase proportionally.
- Minimum clear aisle width starts at 12 inches (305mm) and increases by 0.3 inches (7.6mm) per seat over 14, capped at 22 inches (560mm).
- Rows served by aisles at one end only must not exceed a 30-foot (9.1m) travel distance from any seat.
- Aisle width increases by 0.6 inches (15mm) per seat over 7 for such rows.
Relevant Provisions of the National Building Code of the Philippines
- Permits up to 30 seats between aisles where exit doors exist on each side of the aisle.
- Exit doors should provide a minimum clear width of 1.70 meters.
- Seating rows back-to-back must maintain at least 1-meter spacing.
Safety Concerns and Fire Evacuation Considerations
- Increasing more than 14 seats per row increases occupant load and may impede evacuation.
- Smoke control is mandated by NFPA 101 for new places of assembly to protect occupants from smoke inhalation during evacuation delays.
- The FCTS adopted smoke control requirements based on existing provisions for high-rise buildings under Section 10.2.19.3 of the Fire Code IRR.
Harmonization and Amendment Objectives
- Both NFPA 101 and the National Building Code allow for seating capacities exceeding those prescribed in the FCP if aisle widths and safety features comply.
- There is a need to update the Fire Code IRR to be consistent with international standards and recent architectural trends.
Key Amendments Recommended to Section 10.2.8.2 para H(1) IRR RA 9514
- Aisle access widths to start at 305 mm and increase by 7.6 mm per seat over 14, capped at 560 mm.
- Rows served by aisles or doorways at both ends to be allowed up to 100 seats per row.
- Rows served by an aisle or doorway at one end only shall not exceed 9 meters travel distance from any seat.
Key Amendments Recommended to Section 10.2.8.8 (Smoke Management)
- Public assembly buildings with more than 14 seats must have a smoke management system.
- The system must limit contaminated atmosphere from fire areas to no more than 1% by volume.
Implementation and Effectivity
- The amendments shall take effect 15 days after complete publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
Conclusion and Approval
- The resolution was adopted by the FCTS after thorough study and deliberation.
- It was recommended for approval by the Fire Director and approved by the OIC, DILG, reflecting alignment with fire safety modernization policies in the Philippines.