Only registered FSEs are qualified to assess a performance-based design approach. It is a norm in the industry that the prescriptive approach is used for standard-design buildings whereas the performance-based approach is for more complex buildings. This is not new. The SCDF already receives building plans where the fire safety design is based on the performance approach (e.g. Singapore Expo and the Esplanade). If there are cost savings to be reaped, or design constraints faced when using the prescriptive method, the decision may then be made to use the performance approach. Ultimately, it is a decision to be made by the stakeholders.

This information is sourced from SCDF