In the context of rapid urbanization, fire-safe office design is mandatory to comply with regulations and protect people and assets. This article summarizes key regulations and practical guidelines for creating a safe workplace. 

LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR FIRE SAFETY

According to the Fire Prevention and Fighting Law No. 27/2013/QH13 and its implementing decrees, all construction works, including office buildings, must strictly comply with fire safety standards from the design phase.

Specifically, Circular 01/2016/TT-BCA of the Ministry of Public Security provides detailed regulations on fire prevention and fighting safety conditions for business establishments, including specific requirements for office space design.

ESSENTIAL TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Emergency Exit System

Emergency escape route design is the most critical element in office fire safety:

• Number of exits: Each floor must have at least 2 independent exits, positioned far apart
• Minimum width: 1.2m for main doors, 0.8m for secondary doors
• Travel distance: From the farthest point to the exit should not exceed 30m (for high-rise buildings)
• Emergency stairs: Must be dedicated fire stairs, elevators should not be used during fires

2. Building Materials and Interior

Selection of materials with high fire resistance:

• Partition walls: Use non-combustible or flame-retardant materials (fire-resistant gypsum boards, brick walls)
• Ceiling: Prioritize metal or fire-resistant gypsum ceiling panels
• Flooring: Ceramic tiles, concrete floors instead of natural wood
• Furniture: Desks, chairs, and cabinets with fire-resistant certification, limit easily combustible synthetic materials

3. Electrical Safety System

Electrical system design must ensure:

• Wiring: Use fire-resistant cables with quality certification
• Electrical panels: Located in easily accessible positions with clear signage
• Circuit breakers: Fully installed for automatic disconnection during overload
• Emergency lighting system: Exit lights and backup lighting operating for at least 60 minutes

SPECIALIZED FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

1. Automatic Fire Detection Equipment

• Smoke detectors: Installation density of 1 detector per 30m² of area
• Heat detectors: For areas with high smoke interference potential
• Manual fire alarm buttons: Spaced no more than 30m apart, 1.3-1.5m above floor level

2. Fire Suppression Systems

Portable fire extinguishers:

• Density: 1 extinguisher per 200m² of office area
• Extinguisher types: CO₂ for electrical equipment, dry powder multi-purpose for general areas
• Location: Easily visible and accessible, 0.8-1.5m from floor

Sprinkler system (for large office areas):

• Automatic water spray upon fire detection
• Stable water pressure, adequate reservoir capacity

3. Smoke Ventilation System

• Smoke exhaust fans: Installed at the highest point of the space
• Natural smoke vents: Minimum area of 2% of floor area
• HVAC system: Automatic shutdown function upon fire detection

RATIONAL SPACE DESIGN

- Zoning Principles

High-risk areas require separate isolation:

• Server rooms, document storage
• Kitchen areas, pantries
• Supply and equipment storage

Emergency corridors must be designed:

• Clear and unobstructed by objects
• With luminous guidance signs for dark conditions
• Non-slip flooring without high steps

- Smart Furniture Layout

• Distance between workstations: Minimum 1.2m for easy movement
• Document cabinet placement: Not obstructing main walkways
• Reception area: Near main entrance/exit for easy evacuation

SIGNAGE AND TRAINING

- Standard Signage System

• EXIT signs: Green color with illumination, placed 2.2m high
• Evacuation diagrams: Posted in visible locations in each area
• Prohibition signs: No smoking, no open flames
• Fire equipment locations: Clear and easily recognizable directional signs

- Awareness Training

- Companies should organize:

• Regular training on evacuation skills for employees
• Fire drills at least every 6 months
• Specific responsibility assignment for each department during emergencies

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Compliance with fire safety regulations in office design is not only a legal obligation but also an investment in protecting people and business assets. Companies should:

1. Consult fire safety experts from the design phase
2. Invest adequately in safety systems without cost-cutting
3. Conduct regular inspections and maintain fire protection equipment
4. Stay updated on new regulations from relevant authorities

With thorough preparation and strict compliance with regulations, office workspaces will become safe environments, allowing employees to work with peace of mind and develop their careers.