Title: Use of analytic hierarchy process and fire dynamics simulator to assess the fire protection systems in a tunnel on fire

Authors: M. Fera, R. Macchiaroli

Addresses: Dipartimento di Ingegneria Aerospaziale e Meccanica, Seconda Universita di Napoli, Real Casa dell'Annunziata, via Roma 29, Aversa (CE), 81031, Italy. ' Dipartimento di Ingegneria Aerospaziale e Meccanica, Seconda Universita di Napoli, Real Casa dell'Annunziata, via Roma 29, Aversa (CE), 81031, Italy

Abstract: The road and rail tunnels are increasing in number. Corresponding to this higher number of tunnels, a higher number of accidents related to safety problems occur. The safety of road and rail tunnels is mostly related to fire safety. Our purpose in this paper is to present a new integrated approach to the analysis of fire safety in tunnels. Using different techniques from the decision support tools, such as the analytic hierarchy process, and through the use of a fire dynamics simulator, we suggest a new priority in the classification of the fire-fighting systems in tunnels. Attention will be paid especially in the analysis of the ventilation systems in tunnels.

Keywords: analytical hierarchy process; AHP; fire-fighting systems; ventilation; fire dynamics simulator; FDS; tunnels on fire; fire protection systems; road tunnels; rail tunnels; fire safety; ventilation systems; simulation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRAM.2010.037087

International Journal of Risk Assessment and Management, 2010 Vol.14 No.6, pp.504 - 529

Received: 26 Aug 2009
Accepted: 03 Aug 2010
Published online: 23 Nov 2010 *

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