Is the performance-based approach for Fire Safety design less stringent as compared to the prescriptive approach?

Question

Accepted Answer

The performance-based approach should not be viewed as less stringent, but it is definitely less restrictive. The use of the performance-based approach to complement the prescriptive approach is widely accepted in many countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, UK, USA, Sweden and Japan. Hong Kong is also moving towards this direction, thus attesting to its growing acceptance. In Singapore, there are several buildings where the performance-based approach has been successfully used, such as the Changi International Airport, the Esplanade and the Singapore Expo.

Is the performance-based approach for Fire Safety design less stringent as compared to the prescriptive approach?

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