Friday, March 4, 2011

An overview of the Uniform Building By-Laws, 1984 & the Amendments 2007 [Part 4/5]


 
3.3 ESSENTIAL SECTIONS IN THE UBBL 

3.3.1. PART I - Definitions and interpretations used in the by-laws [By-Laws Sections 1 - 2],

3.3.2. PART II - The procedures for submitting plans to the Local Authorities for their approval for permanent and temporary buildings, advertisement and perimeter hoardings [By-Laws Sections 3 - 29],
  • Clause 3  
    • Submission of plans for approval [By a qualified person / principal submitting person] FORM A
  • Clause 5 
    • No erection or continued erection of a building shall take place unless the qualified person undertakes the supervision of the erection and the setting out
  • Clause 7 
    • Withdrawal or change of qualified person / principal submitting person [With the agreement of the authority] No work to commence until another qualified person takes over.
  • Clauses 8 – 12 
    • Submission procedures
  • Clause 13 
    • Special permission to commence building operations early
  • Clauses 14 & 15 
    • Submission procedures
  • Clauses 16 & 17 
    • Submission of structural drawings and calculations
  • Clause 18 
    • Permits [May submit sketch plans for minor erections and minor alteration]
  • Clause 19 
    • Temporary permits [Erections of a sheds for shows or builders, place of worship, building materials, scaffoldings, staging or hoarding on streets]
  • Clause 20 
    • Advertisement hoarding [Erection of hoarding subject to an annual temporary permit]
  • Clause 22 
    • Notice of commencement or resumption of building operations. FORM B
  • Clause 23 
    • Notice of completion of Setting Out of building. FORM C [Not Applicable for CCC]
  • Clause 24 
    • Notice of completion of Excavation for Foundation. FORM D [Not Applicable for CCC]
  • Clauses 25 - 28 
    • Certification of Fitness for Occupation [CFO] / Certificate of Completion and Compliance [CCC] and offence occupying a building without CFO / CCC.
  • Clause 29 
    • Refer to First Schedule for Payment Rates for Submission of Plans
3.3.3. PART III - The required space [dimensions], light and ventilation to be provided in buildings [By-Laws Sections 30 - 47],
  • Clauses 32 – 34 
    • Open Space and Plinth ratio for buildings abutting a street and a backlane in relation to a lot size and Setbacks
  • Clause 36 
    • Requirement for a Splayed Corner for a building erected at a junction
  • Clause 37 & 47 
    • Building abutting a street allowed a Projection over Street over the building line
  • Clause 38 
    • Width of footway and requirements for steps and pedestrian ramp. To refer MS1184 & MS1185 in conjunction with this clause.
  • Clauses 39 - 42 
    • Requirements for Natural Lighting and Ventilation according to building use. Rules on Air Wells dimensions, Mechanical Ventilation and Air-Conditioning
  • Clauses 42 & 43 
    • Minimum areas and dimensions of rooms in buildings
  • Clauses 44 – 46 
    • Height controls for rooms in buildings
3.3.4. PART IV - The required temporary works during construction [By-Laws Sections 48 - 52],
  • Clause 48 
    • Requirements for Project Signboard & Hoarding [To obtain Temporary Permit]
  • Clause 49 
    • Responsibilities of person granted temporary permits
  • Clause 51 
    • Control of vehicular access to site by the Local Authority.
  • Clause 52 
    • Rising mains for fire fighting facilities to be installed progressively for buildings designed to exceed 18.3m [Refer Clause 232]
3.3.5. PART V - Structural requirements and considerations e.g. dead, superimposed and dynamic loads and, structural materials and elements [By-Laws Sections 53 - 80],
  • Clause 53 
    • Building materials use
  • Clause 54 
    • General requirement of loading [Dead loads, imposed loads and winds load considerations]
  • Clause 55 
    • Dead and imposed loads [Provisions for loads]
  • Clause 56 
    • Dead loads calculated from weight of materials used [Based on BS648 or actual known weights and as laid out in Fourth Schedule]
  • Clause 57 
    • Weight of partitions [To include in dead load calculations]
  • Clause 58 
    • Contents of tanks and other receptacles [Treated as dead loads]
  • Clause 59 
    • Imposed floor loads [Methods to allow for imposed loads i.e. distributed or concentrated loads]
  • Clause 60 
    • Mechanical stacking [Special provisions in the design of the floors]
  • Clause 61 
    • Imposed loads on ceilings skylight and similar structures [Methods to allow for these loads]
  • Clause 62 
    • Reduction in total imposed floor loads [Methods to allow for these loads]
  • Clauses 63 – 67 
    • Imposed roof loads, Curved roof, Roof covering, Internal suspended loads on primary structural members, Amount of suspended load [Methods to allow for these loads]
  • Clauses 68 – 69 
    • Dynamic loading, Crane gantry girders
  • Clauses 70 – 71 
    • Parapets and balustrades, Vehicle barriers for car-parks [8km/hr for access ramp and up to 32km/hr for downward travel for a representative 1.5 metric ton vehicle]
  • Clause 72 
    • Basement walls and floors [Provisions for lateral pressure and buoyancy/hydrostatic pressure]
  • Clauses 73 – 79 
    • Foundations [Provisions to transmit load to the ground], Foundations of building not exceeding four storey, Reinforced concrete foundations, Strip foundations, Brick footings, Foundations below invert of drains, Foundations under external and party walls
  • Clause 80
    • Structure above foundations
3.3.6. PART VI - Constructional requirements e.g. site preparation, constructional materials, method of construction and, architectural and related Structural and M&E requirements [By-Laws Sections 81 - 132],
  • Clause 81 
    • Building site [Erection of suitable land]
  • Clause 82 
    • Drainage of subsoil
  • Clause 83 
    • Protection against soil erosion.
  • Clause 84 
    • Prevention of Dampness
  • Clauses 85 – 89 
    • Definition of Wall Thickness, Party Walls & Openings in Party Walls, Recess, Chases [Party Walls extended vertically 230 above roof surface & Minimum wall thickness of party wall left 100mm etc]
  • Clauses 91 – 92 
    • Materials for Coping & Projections in brickwork
  • Clauses 93 – 96 
    • Rules on Use of Internal & External Wall Materials of 100mm thick
  • Clause 97 
    • Rules on Intrusion of Timber built into Party Walls [100mm spacing for timber in party walls and separated with cement or brick]
  • Clause 98 
    • Control on Fences and Boundary Walls [1.8m max solid and 2.75m max impervious to air and light]
  • Clauses 99 – 102 
    • Rules on cooking areas
  • Clause 103 
    • Timber floor [Use of hardwood or treated timber, specifications for trimmer joists]
  • Clauses 104 - 105 
    • Bearing for joists [Min 100mm bearing on wall, Support on continuous corbelled brickwork, At least 100mm of fire- resisting material on party wall between adjoining timber structures].
  • Clause 106 
    • Rules on Staircases [Risers max 180mm & Tread min 255mm, Width Refer Clause 168, Landing no less than stairs width]
  • Clause 107 
    • Rules on Handrails [4 risers & more min 1 handrail, wider than 2225mm to have intermediate handrails, except residential width 1100mm & more handrail to be both sides of staircase at max 100mm from wall, between 825-900mm height measured from nosing step & no less than 900mm at landing]
  • Clause 108 
    • Maximum Flight [residential stairs landing no less than 1.8m depth every 4.25m height; other buildings no more than 16 risers between landing]
  • Clauses 109 – 113 
    • Various Rules on Staircases
  • Clauses 114 - 117 
    • Timber Roof, Roof Covering, Railing at Flat Roofs, Access to Roof Spaces
  • Clauses 118 - 122 
    • Refuse chutes & alternative means for refuse disposal
  • Clause 123 
    • Pipes and service ducts requirements [risers / cabinets]
  • Clause 124 
    • Lifts - non-residential buildings more than 4 storeys to be provided with a lift
  • Clauses 125 - 132 
    • Public Swimming Pool requirements
3.3.7. PART VII - Passive fire protection requirements [By-Laws Sections 133 - 224]
  • Clause 133 
    • Interpretations and Definitions on Fire Requirements
  • Clause 134 
    • Designation of Purpose Group of every building [Fifth Schedule]
  • Clause 135 
    • Rules of Measurements for Height, Areas, Cubic Capacity of Buildings
  • Clauses 136 – 137 
    • Fifth Schedule _ Provisions of compartment walls and floors_ floor area exceeds relevant height e.g. floors in building exceeding 30m in height, or volume of space exceeds relevant cubic capacity to be constructed as compartment floor
  • Clause 138 
    • Fifth Schedule _ Walls and floors to be constructed as compartment walls or compartment floor under Purpose Group II [Institutions], flats/apartments, between different Purpose Groups and floor above a basement of area exceeding 100sqm.
  • Clause 139 
    • Separation of fire risk areas from areas of occupancy.
  • Clause 140 
    • Fire appliance access e.g. 12m width road to support fire engine for buildings over 7000cum of volume & minimum proportion building perimeter as road for fire access based on building volume.
  • Clause 141 
    • Rules on Penetrations of Pipes through separating walls and height of separating walls at roof junctions e.g. 225mm wall extension above roof.
  • Clauses 142 - 145 
    • External Walls Design and Materials to comply with Permitted Limits of Unprotected Areas specified in the Sixth Schedule including Beams
  • Clause 146 
    • Definition of Relevant Boundary
  • Clause 147 
    • Construction of Separating Walls to be on Non-Combustible Materials
  • Clause 148 
    • Special Requirements for Compartment Walls and Floors
  • Clause 149 
    • Horizontal and Vertical Barriers of the external walls to extend minimum 750mm and 900mm respectively.
  • Clause 150 
    • Protected Shafts Requirements
  • Clause 151 - 155 
    • Lifts Requirements _ Ventilation, Openings, Smoke Detectors in Lift Lobbies & Emergency Mode
  • Clause 156 – 157 
    • Protected Shafts as Ventilation Duct and Staircases
  • Clauses 158 – 159 
    • Stages in Places of Assembly and Open Stages _ Requirement for a proscenium wall of 225mm thick unless suitable protection devices installed
  • Clause 160 
    • Fire precautions in air conditioning systems
  • Clause 161 
    • Fire Stopping Materials
  • Clauses 162 – 164 
    • Fire Doors _ 162(2) Openings in compartment and separating walls to be protected by Fire Doors in accordance with the FRP requirements of the relevant walls referred in the Ninth Schedule 162(3) Openings in protected structures to be protected by Fire Doors with FRP not less than ½ of the relevant walls referred in the Ninth Schedule 162(4) Openings in protected corridor or lobby to be protected by Fire Doors having FRP of ½ hour.
  • Clause 165 – 167 
    • Measurement of Travel Distance to Exits, Condition of Exits and Storey Exits based on Seventh Schedule _ Open plan travel distance calculated no more than 2/3 permitted travel distance, room with 6 or less persons measured from the doors if travel distance within room less than 15m, minimum 2 separate exits from each storey not nearer than 4.5m apart and located within the limits of travel distance, widths of exits as specified in Seventh Schedule
  • Clauses 168 - 169 
    • Exit Staircases _ Every upper floor to have minimum 2 staircases except buildings lower than 12m that comply with Clause 194, Number of Staircases should accommodate highest occupancy load under Seventh Schedule even though one staircase is not accessible/available, handrails may encroach into staircase width to a maximum 75mm, widths of staircases and exit routes shall be maintained [not reduced in width] throughout & door swings should not encroach the access width. Also refer Clauses 174 – 177, 181 – 182, 190 & 191.
  • Clause 170 
    • Egress Conditions for Mezzanine Floors and Open Staircases
  • Clause 171 
    • Conditions for Horizontal Exits
  • Clause 172 
    • Conditions for Emergency Exit [KELUAR] Signs
  • Clause 173 
    • Conditions for Exit Door
  • Clause 174 
    • Arrangement of Storey Exits to be not less than 5m apart with direct access to [1] a final exit [2] a protected staircase to a final exit [3] an external route to a final exit. Basements and Roof Structures for services need not have alternative egress.
  • Clauses 175 - 177 
    • Calculation of occupancy load, capacity of exits, exit widths and number of staircases to refer to Seventh Schedule. At least one staircase should be a minimum of 2 unit widths [552mm x 2 = 1104mm wide] except 900mm allowed where total occupancy of all floors less than 50. Refer Clauses 168 – 169, 181 & 182
  • Clause 178 
    • Exits for institutional and places of assembly to be located to avoid undue danger from fire originating in other occupancy (areas)
  • Clauses 179 – 188 
    • Classifications of places of assembly, space standards for calculating occupancy loads, exit details for places of assembly, seating, gangways, exit doors and travel distance
  • Clause 181 - 182 
    • Calculation for width of means of egress and rate of discharge _ 552mm per unit width with ½ unit width = 300mm, no exits less than 700mm [clear width of opening], rates of travel per floor are [1] 60 persons per minute horizontally (doors & level passage ways) and [2] 45 person per minute vertically (stairs)
  • Clauses 190 - 191 
    • External Staircases may used as exit staircases provided they comply with requirements of internal staircases and separated from the interior of building by walls and fire doors and no openings next to the staircase within 2m distance horizontally and 9m vertically below except ventilations for toilets or other protected areas.
  • Clause 192 - 193 
    • Moving Walks and Power Operated Doors may be considered as egress
  • Clause 194 
    • Residential or Office Buildings permitted to be served by a Single Staircase when top floor is 12m high or less [except Ground Floor may be Shops or Car Parking], stairs separated from Ground Floor with fire rated walls, wall enclosing staircase is returned no less than 450mm from Ground Floor Shop or Car Park, maximum travel distance 12m from exit door to any point in the area. At Ground and First Floors, if there are windows with opening lights possible for emergency escape the maximum travel distance may be 30m.
  • Clause 195 
    • Buildings over 30m high to have all staircases used as mean of egress extended to roof level as access.
  • Clauses 196 – 197 
    • Smoke Lobbies accessed via fire doors, Smoke Lobbies for Staircases, Protected Lobbies for staircases in buildings higher than 18m without ventilation through external walls, Pressurised Lobbies for buildings higher than 45m
  •  
  • Clauses 198 – 202 
    • Ventilation for staircases at each floor or landing with a minimum 1sqm opening per floor. In building less than 3-storeys staircase may not be ventilated if access via ventilated lobbies at all floors except the top most and; if buildings 18m high or less with top most floor ventilated at top most with 5% of area of enclosure. Buildings higher than 18m to be mechanically ventilated if not naturally ventilated at every floor or landing.
  • Clause 203 – 207 
    • Restriction and Classifications of Spread of Flames _ Reference to Eight Schedule and definitions of Class O and Classes 1 – 4 of materials.
  • Clauses 208 – 212 
    • Reference to roofs, Reference to buildings, Construction of roofs, Roofing materials, Category designation for fire penetration and spread of flame on roof surface.
  • Clause 213 - 214 
    • Fire resistance [on elements of structures] no less than as specified in the Ninth Schedule
  • Clause 215 
    • Definitions on Height of Buildings
  • Clause 216 
    • Conditions on fire rating of structures for Single storey buildings
  • Clause 217 
    • Fire resistance of structural member [a minimum fire rating for frames applicable based on the wall they support]
  • Clause 218 
    • Conditions on fire rating of walls for flats or maisonette
  • Clause 219 
    • Application of these by laws to floor [ceilings do not attribute to fire rating other than those in Ninth Schedule]
  • Clause 220 
    • Definitions on Floor Area and capacity of buildings and compartments
  • Clause 221 
    • Test of fire resistance [Method of testing based on BS 476: Part I]
  • Clause 222 
    • Fire resistance for walls
  • Clause 223 Fire resistance for floors above ground floor
  • Clause 224 Fire resistance for any element of structure [based on Ninth Schedule]
3.3.8. PART VIII - Active fire protection requirements [By-Laws Sections 225 - 253] and
  • Clause 225 
    • Every building to have [1] means of detecting and extinguishing fire, equipped with fire alarm and exit signs based the Tenth Schedule and [2] a minimum one Fire Hydrant not more than 91.5m from nearest fire brigade access
  • Clause 226 
    • Automatic fire protection system for hazardous occupancy to suit hazard
  • Clause 227 
    • Portable extinguishers provided based on relevant codes and sited prominently and visible along exit routes
  • Clause 228 
    • Sprinkler valves to be located on exterior walls accessible to Firemen and alarm electrically connected to nearest Bomba station
  • Clause 229 
    • Buildings with top most floor higher than 18.3m to be provided with means of access and fighting fire from within building via fire fighting access lobbies directly accessible from outside, staircases, fire lifts in protected lobbies or staircases or corridors and dry or wet risers. Fire fighting lobbies at every level no more than 45.75m from furthermost point.
  • Clause 230 
    • Dry rising system to be provided in buildings with top most floor more than 18.3m but less than 30.5m.
  • Clause 231 
    • Wet rising system to be provided in buildings with top most floor more than 30.5m. Wet riser to be provided to every staircase which extends to the roof. Each stage of wet riser to be no more than 61.0m except in cases may be permitted to 70.15m
  • Clause 232 
    • One Wet or Dry Riser to be installed when a building is under construction reached a height above fire brigade pumping inlet and located next to a useable staircase within 2 floors of the topmost construction
  • Clauses 233 - 234 
    • Foam inlets to be installed for windowless buildings, boiler rooms and structures/storage areas below ground where automated extinguishers not installed
  • Clauses 235 - 236 
    • Fixed installations via total flooding or unit protection system may be required e.g. for places with special hazard
  • Clause 237 
    • Fire alarms to be provided base on Tenth Schedule with premises exceeding area of 9,290sqm or higher than 30.5m provided with two-stage alarm system
  • Clause 238 
    • Large or tall buildings over 30.5m require Command and Control Centre to be located at designated floor with direct telephone connection to Bomba
  • Clauses 239 – 241 
    • Two voice communication systems to be provided [1] Bomba communications [2] pa system between control centre and public areas. Floor or zone of area over 929sqm of nett area to be provided with electrical isolation switches within staircases. Special visible fire alarm systems to be installed in addition to normal alarm for deaf persons or audible alarms undesirable.
  • Clause 242 
    • Fire fighting access lobbies to be 5.57sqm or more in area and have openable windows or openings for ventilation or mechanically ventilated.
  • Clause 243 
    • Buildings with top most occupied floor over 18.5m to be provided with Bomba lifts. Bomba lifts to be provided for every group of lifts discharged into the same protected enclosure but no more than 61.0m travel distance from furthermost point of the floor.
  • Clauses 244 – 245 
    • Standards required and approval of Ketua Pengarah Bomba.
  • Clause 246 
    • Certificate of Completion to be signed on Form B in Tenth Schedule once work is completed.
  • Clauses 247 – 248 
    • Water storage and markings to comply with Tenth Schedule and Bomba requirements.
  • Clause 249 – 252 
    • Smoke and heat venting in large buildings, Natural draught smoke vent, Smoke vents for exit safety to be designed to prevent accumulation of smoke during evacuation and manual vents must be openable by BOmba from outside.
  • Clause 253 
    • Emergency Power System to be provided for power and illumination for safety to life and property via storage batteries or generator set.
3.3.9. PART IX - Miscellaneous definitions and references and, the procedures on reporting on building failures [By-Laws Sections 254 - 258].
  • Clause 254 – 256 
    • Buildings to which Parts VII & VIII apply & power of PBT to extend compliance / exemptions.
  • Clause 257 
    • Malaysian standard specification and code of practice to prevail over British Standard Specifications or Code of Practice
  • Clause 258 
    • Failure to Buildings [report failure, explain cause & state remedial action within a week]
  1. The Uniform Building By-Laws, 1984 [UBBL] was established out the need for a standardised set of building regulations for the country.   However, despite the federal government gazetting the UBBL in 1985, the reality is that until today the use and interpretation of the UBBL are anything but uniformed.   The enforcement of UBBL is governed by the states and hence gazetted separately with slightly different versions for each of the states.
  2. As the UBBL is a state matter, many Local Authorities and Technical Departments have their own readings and interpretation of the UBBL.   The differences in the translations between the English and Bahasa Melayu versions also added to the confusion.   Hence, there is a need to re-look into the intents of the UBBL and persuade all state governments to agree to a “Local Authorities’ Endorsed” standardised explanatory notes.   To that effect, the fire department had produced two definitive books on their interpretation of the fire protection system’s requirements which had become very useful references for designers.
  3. The continual advances in constructional technologies and sciences have made some of the by-laws within the UBBL “out-of-date”.   For instance, Malaysia has experienced rapid development over the last two decades.   Large-scale structures, like new airports, shopping centres and mixed developments, have been built with new concepts and design approaches.   The existing UBBL and other Fire Safety codes are not applicable to these structures.   Hence, there is a need for the UBBL to be updated to reflect the “state-of-the-art” and make allowances for the by-laws therein to be amended to allow continual adaptation to suit the ever-changing times.  The Fire Safety- Performance Based Approach has been officially adopted in 2002 by the Fire and Rescue Department, Malaysia [Bomba] to solve some of these shortfalls.   The approach, which has been widely practiced overseas, is a scientific and engineering-based method whereby the determination of type and standard of fire safety protection systems required specific testing and research.
  4. There are by-laws within the UBBL which had not been referred to by professionals and/or found to be irrelevant.   As an example, a good number of sections under the structural requirements have been ignored and not referred to by structural engineers since most are using the British Standards as their main design guide.   Therefore, it is best to re-look these sections and decide whether to have these clauses repealed or amended to suit the times.

    113 comments:

    1. Hi! Encik Badrul Hisham,

      In schedule 10, Note 3 which refer to the type of fire alarm as follows;

      1. Automatic Fire Detection System
      2. Manual Electrical Fire Alarm System
      3. Signal indicator Alarm System
      4. Manual Alarm System

      can you advice the definition of 2,3 and 4 of these alarm system?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. This question is regarding the types of fire alarm and it is best be addressed to an electrical engineer who is familiar with all the types of fire alarm available.
        From my understanding the Manual System refer to a system which requires human intervention to send signal via manually toggling switches, breaking glass etc as opposed to automatic detection systems which will send signal upon any of the sensors detect fire via smoke detectors, heat detectors, sprinkler heads discharge etc.
        The various systems may be addressable or non-addressable types, meaning we can see where the signals come from the addressable type or we just know the alarm triggers without knowing exactly where the signal is coming from in the non-addressable systems.

        Delete
    2. sir can you explain what is the clause 226 and 227 talking about?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. UBBL 226 and 227 to be read with the relevant schedules at the back of the UBBL.
        In general what it say under ByLaw 226 is to check the possible building hazards and match the protection system to counter the identified hazards.
        ByLaw 227 basically set the rule for locating the fire hose reels and extinguishers.

        Delete
      2. Fire extinguisher needs to be provided for each unit of apartment?

        Delete
    3. Sir,

      Thanks for all the info. May I know what's the minimum distance of a Carpark to genset of a condo. Thanks !

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Dear Emily
        As far as I am aware, there is no set distance control for location of gensets except for service practicality and building setbacks. Logically the exhaust should be away from population. Architects should locate gensets out of the way anyhow.
        I suppose because gensets are normally for backup power supply and switched on during blackouts and monthly tests only, it was thus deemed an "acceptable" occasional nuisance.
        If there are rules that I am not aware on gensets location please share.

        Delete
      2. Dear Emily
        As far as I am aware, there is no set distance control for location of gensets except for service practicality and building setbacks. Logically the exhaust should be away from population. Architects should locate gensets out of the way anyhow.
        I suppose because gensets are normally for backup power supply and switched on during blackouts and monthly tests only, it was thus deemed an "acceptable" occasional nuisance.
        If there are rules that I am not aware on gensets location please share.

        Delete
    4. Assalam..En Badrul Hisham..
      En boleh saya tanya berapa lebar minimum untuk main corridor?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Dear Ummi,
        Please refer to the relevant local council for this specific question.
        The UBBL do set a dimension for footpaths but local councils don't normally stick to the set dimensions,

        Delete
    5. Hi En Badrul,

      On UBBL 10th Schedule, Group VI. Factory, Item 5. Special Structure, could you please advise the definition of wet process and hazardous process?

      Also, at the end of the 10th schedule, there is a note saying "The hazardous areas and process within any building referred to in Group VI are the following area....."

      I wonder is this applicable to whole Group VI, be it single story, two story, etc?

      Thank

      Best regards

      abu

      ReplyDelete
    6. En Abu
      TENTH SCHEDULE | TABLE OF REQUIREMENETS FOR FIRE EXTINGUISHMENT, ALARM SYSTEM & EMERGENCY LIGHTING

      I have not done a factory with wet processes but I will share my opinion on this matter.

      UNDER GROUP VI | FACTORY
      5. Special Structures
      Based on my experience with Factory Complex / Mill Complex, I would imagine the
      WET PROCESSES / HAZARDOUS PROCESSES involve liquefied materials in the factory operations and/or combustible/corrosive/life threatening gas etc etc. Actually the Note for hazardous areas and processes gave hints of what the UBBL meant with this section.

      Union Carbide Bhopal India factory disaster in 1984 came to my mind and let us not forget the Sungai Buloh Bright Sparklers Fireworks Factory explosion in 1991. Set aside the legality of these factories and/or their Standard Operating Procedures to contain potential problems.

      Some of these processes would require special fire protection / fire fighting equipment / system due to the specific nature of the hazards.
      Hence, the NOTE 2. which require consultation with Fire Department / Bomba on the suitable protection system.

      I would also imagine it is immaterial if the building is SINGLE STOREY or MORE since the processes/hazard need to be contained regardless of the building design.

      I hope the explanation helps somehow.

      ReplyDelete
    7. Sir,

      Is there any specific requirement under UBBL for underground storage tank for storing petroleum product?

      HS

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I am sorry that I am not familiar with this specific provisions in the UBBL.
        My answer will be similar to the question above yours by En Abu about building for hazardous materials.

        My only clue is that you have to refer to the Standard Operating Procedures or Building Manual for petrol station operations.

        Any architect out there who is familiar with this who might wish to share his or her experience ?

        Delete
    8. Hi Encik Badrul,

      Do you the ratio of 1 fire warden to amount of staff in one organization. TQ.

      ReplyDelete
    9. This question is beyond the scope of the UBBL.

      The Department of Safety and Health [DOSH] may be able to assist.
      Please refer Clauses 29, 30 and 31 in the Occupational Safety and Health Act [OSHA] 1994 for some indications.

      ReplyDelete
    10. FOR REFERENCE | AUSTRALIAN SCENARIO

      7 KEY DUTIES OF A FIRE WARDEN

      By Joanna Weekes on August 7th, 2014

      Fire wardens play an important role in ensuring your business is prepared for a fire emergency. Along with your emergency plan, fire wardens are an important risk control measure to ensure that your workplace is prepared should an emergency situation, potentially a fire, occur.

      Key duties of fire wardens include:

      1. to assist in implementing and improving effective emergency procedures in your workplace;
      2. to help prevent emergencies by monitoring the adequacy of the fire risk control measures;
      3. to raise awareness with other staff about the fire hazards that exist in your workplace;
      4. to instruct workers in how to respond in an emergency;
      5. to lead the fire drills and real evacuation procedures – they must be familiar with all escape routes and exits from their designated area;
      6. to ensure all workers are accounted for during an evacuation; and
      7. to assist all people in the workplace should an emergency occur, including assisting people with special needs, e.g. helping someone in a wheelchair to evacuate.

      If the fire alarm is sounded, fire wardens have a duty to assist in the safe evacuation of workers and visitors from your workplace immediately, and to ensure that their designated area has been cleared.

      During an evacuation, fire wardens need to:

      1. direct everyone to leave the building using all the appropriate routes and exits (and not inappropriate exits such as lifts);
      2. check all accessible spaces in their area, including the bathroom, to make sure everyone has evacuated – this should be done on the way out of the building so that the fire warden isn’t putting themselves at risk by re-entering the evacuated area;
      3. close the doors to help to isolate the fire; and
      4. guide everyone to the assembly area and assist in checking that everyone has arrived safely.

      Fire wardens should be provided with full authority to conduct an evacuation and your workers should know that the warden has this authority.

      The fire warden should also check on a regular basis that fire exits are clear at all times.

      So…do you have an assigned fire warden to carry out these functions in your workplace? And if not, should you?

      Is there a legal requirement to have fire wardens?

      While there is no requirement set out in legislation to have fire wardens, it is important to appoint fire wardens to ensure that you meet your health and safety obligations in relation to emergency plans and procedures.

      Under the Australian Standard 3745-2010 Planning for emergencies in facilities, there is a requirement for an emergency control organisation to be established and the appointment of chief and deputy fire wardens for a building or facility.

      According to the Standard, an emergency control organisation is “a person or persons appointed…to direct and control the implementation of the facility’s emergency response procedures.” In other words, it is the warden or team of wardens appointed in your workplace to carry out the key roles above.

      SOURCE:
      http://www.healthandsafetyhandbook.com.au/7-key-duties-of-a-fire-warden/

      ReplyDelete
    11. This comment has been removed by the author.

      ReplyDelete
    12. FOR REFERENCE | USA SCENARIO [?] ON WARDENS

      http://www.osha-safety-training.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&catid=22:osha-regulations&id=234:fire-safety-osha-regulations-29-cfr-1910155-165

      3. "Emergency action plan training." The employer should assure that an adequate number of employees are available at all times during working hours to act as evacuation wardens so that employees can be swiftly moved from the danger location to the safe areas.

      Generally, one warden for each twenty employees in the workplace should be able to provide adequate guidance and instruction at the time of a fire emergency.

      The employees selected or who volunteer to serve as wardens should be trained in the complete workplace layout and the various alternative escape routes from the workplace. All wardens and fellow employees should be made aware of handicapped employees who may need extra assistance, such as using the buddy system, and of hazardous areas to be avoided during emergencies. Before leaving, wardens should check rooms and other enclosed spaces in the workplace for employees who may be trapped or otherwise unable to evacuate the area.

      ReplyDelete
    13. salam tuan,

      boleh explain perkara 194?

      Tq in advance.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Sorry for the late reply
        The provision is very clear on Clause 194 of the UBBL in English and Bahasa Melayu.

        I am not sure what to explain but I can share the summary below:

        By Law 194 - RESIDENTIAL OR OFFICE BUILDINGS ONLY PERMITTED to have a SINGLE STAIRCASE and if
        • TOP FLOOR ≤12m high from Ground,
        • Except Ground Floor may be Shops or Car Parking,
        • STAIRS SEPARATED from Ground Floor with 2hr FRP fire walls, wall enclosing staircase is returned 450mm from Ground Floor Shop or Car Park,
        • Maximum TRAVEL DISTANCE 12m from Exit Door to any point in the area.
        • At Ground and First Floors, if there are windows with opening lights possible for emergency escape the maximum travel distance may be 30m.

        *** Under [UBBL SELANGOR Rev2012] By Law 194 [AMENDED]

        SINGLE STAIR PERMITTED for
        (a) DWELLINGS where HIGHEST & LOWEST FLOORS at height 12m from FIRE APPLIANCE ACCESS LEVEL
        (b) SHOP HOUSES or DWELLINGS ≤ 2-Storeys or 1st Storey ≤ 6m from GROUND Level

        Hope these help.
        Regards

        Delete
      2. I'm revising a shopoffice block drawing for submission; downsizing from 3-storey to 2.
        Using a single staircase which is only accessible for the upper floor occupant, is a fire door required (at the top of the staircase)?

        Delete
    14. Hello En Badrul,

      Could you please share your experience for applying UBBL on storage warehouse?

      Many thanks

      from junior engineer

      ReplyDelete
    15. Sorry for the late reply
      Storage warehouses under UBBL need to be approached with these in mind
      1. Type of Materials being stored .. this will have to do with the type of fire protections system to be provided i.e. active and passive fire protections system to be designed for them
      2. Size / Area / Volume of the Warehouse .. this will decide whether there will be smoke extraction system etc i.e. active fire protection and also the required emergency exits from the building etc ..
      3. Whether the Warehouse is annexed to another section / building of different use i.e. level of passive fire protection to be provided.

      The best thing is to go through some set of UBBL check list before designing them. Just like other buidings.

      I will try to write and share about them under the UBBL review.

      ReplyDelete
    16. hi encik badrul.
      can u list down for me the impact of UBBL on lift installation in a building?
      thankyou

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. UBBL regulates the requirements for lifts for a certain height and storey of buildings for the purposes of practicality and fire fighting.
        For fire fighting purposes the locations are governed by practicality of fire fighting access for firemen and also the number of Bomba lifts are regulated by the size of buildings.

        You will need to read the UBBL under Fire Fighting Access, Protected Lobbies and Firemen’s Lifts
        such as,

        By Law 124 - LIFTS
        Non-residential Buildings >4 storeys above or below ground to be provided with a lift.
        By Laws 151 - 155 – LIFTS Requirements
        By Laws 197A and 197B [version 2012]
        By Law 229 - 243 – Fire Lifts

        Delete
    17. En.Badrul,
      Can you share your experience in Design and Build for temporary Site Office.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. En Rozai Rosli
        Normally Temporary Site Office submissions procedures will be the same for D&B Contract or Conventional Contract that is, the Architect will have to prepare the drawings for the locations etc.
        Only that, under a D&B Contract the Architect may have to detail up the Site Office for construction, whereas under the Conventional Contract the task falls under the Main Contractor.
        If you are pursuing GBI Rating, you may wish to consult the GBI Facilitator on the detailed requirements of the Site Office and facilities.

        Delete
    18. Assalamualaikum En Badrul;

      For a building which is built 19 years ago, now is currently under renovation and upgrading. For room such genset room inter alia; previously installed with CO2 total flooding system, but nowadays since environmental issues such as Kyoto Protocol, usage of CO2 is prohibited. Just to have your opinion, is it compulsory/have any orders or regulation to change to non hazardous system such as Clean Agent system or still can use as per existing system? Because there are argument to fulfill BOMBA requirement or enviromental policy.
      Thank you.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Alaika salaam

        I would imagine a 19 year old building, ie built in circa 1995, may need some upgrading on fire protection systems as, you have pointed out, there are requirements for clean agents and other upgraded fire protection systems nowadays. There were fire protection systems [and architectural materials and some other M&E systems for that matter] that we had used on buildings then that are no longer allowed now.

        The best approach is to go through the previous Bomba Fire Certificate comments/requirements and consult Bomba direct in addition to discussing with your M&E Engineers.

        Delete
      2. Enter your comment...

        for a condo unit where furthest room is within 15m travel limit and from the door of the room to one of nearest fire escape stair do we calculate base on 20m dead end limit or 30m travel distance

        does the main entry door of the said condo unit require 1hour fire door?

        how does 25% opening for open corridor implicate the design

        thanks

        Delete
    19. As Salam En Badrul,

      Just curios, apakah ada maximum pithch/degree untuk pembinaan staircase yang terkandung dlm UBBL atau apa2 regulations dalam pembinaan bangunan bukan kediaman?

      Harap dapat membantu. TQ

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Salaam.
        Please refer to the minimum tread width and maximum risers allowed in the UBBL to get the pitch / angle of the stairs.
        The pitch is a tangent of 180mm / 255mm perhaps ?

        Delete
    20. Hi. Ar Badrul.

      Good day.
      Your sharing on the UBBL is much appreciated.
      However, I don't understand on this clause:
      Definition of Wall Thickness, Party Walls & Openings in Party Walls, Recess, Chases [Party Walls extended vertically 230 above roof surface & Minimum wall thickness of party wall left 100mm etc]

      What does the 100mm mean? Does that mean the minimum requirement for the party wall thickness is 100mm, and the maximum requirement for the said wall is 230mm?

      Appreciate if you could explain further. Thank you in advance and wish you a good day.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Party walls can be as thin as 100mm for residentials but 230mm for commercial properties. There are other provisions for chasing [strip cuts] of walls. Whatever you do with the party walls eg install piping within it, the minimum thickness left of the wall should be 100mm. Of course if you have a 100mm thick wall you cannot do chasing or cutting the walls without breaching this requirement.

        Delete
    21. Sir,

      Can you share on the step/drop provision for landed residential housing platform level for living and carporch level at GF. Is there any regulation stipulated in by laws that we need to adhere? On top of that, if there is no specific by laws, having said that the architect might even design with higher drop, I.e drop between living to carporch at sliding door more than 300mm or 600mm? As far as I concerned it is too dangerous as a means of fire exit especially for children, old folk, OKU etc.

      Hope you can clarify.

      Really appreciate it.
      FAIDZ

      ReplyDelete
    22. Sir,

      Can you share on the step/drop provision for landed residential housing platform level for living and carporch level at GF. Is there any regulation stipulated in by laws that we need to adhere? On top of that, if there is no specific by laws, having said that the architect might even design with higher drop, I.e drop between living to carporch at sliding door more than 300mm or 600mm? As far as I concerned it is too dangerous as a means of fire exit especially for children, old folk, OKU etc.

      Hope you can clarify.

      Really appreciate.
      FAIDZ

      ReplyDelete
    23. Sir,

      Can you share on the step/drop provision for landed residential housing platform level for living and carporch level at GF. Is there any regulation stipulated in by laws that we need to adhere? On top of that, if there is no specific by laws, having said that the architect might even design with higher drop, I.e drop between living to carporch at sliding door more than 300mm or 600mm? As far as I concerned it is too dangerous as a means of fire exit especially for children, old folk, OKU etc.

      Hope you can clarify.

      Really appreciate.
      FAIDZ

      ReplyDelete
    24. Dear Faidz

      I could not find the specific regulations for landed residential on the step height or threshold from the car porch to the living room [I hope anyone else reading this reply can enlighten / correct / help me out here].

      But normally our office would stick to the norm of +/- 100mm height difference from porch/terrace to house/living room as it sufficient to differentiate the inside and outside by that height.

      We make reference to the following provisions in the UBBL.

      By Law 38 - Width of FOOTWAY AND REQUIREMENTS FOR STEPS AND PEDESTRIAN RAMPS.
      • Steps on public footways with Risers [height of the step] equal or less than 150mm and Tread [width of the step] equal or more than 275mm
      • Pedestrian Ramps more than 1:10 in gradient/slope.
      And we refer to MS1331 & MS1184 CODES OF PRACTICE ON ACCESS FOR DISABLED PERSONS TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS [1:12 max ramp gradient specified therein] in conjunction with this clause and we adopt the same for private residentials.
      Footpaths and ramps to comply with the codes for Public Buildings and Public Access.

      By Law 106 - Rules on STAIRCASES
      • RISERS [height of the step] to be not more than 180mm high & TREAD [width of the step] to be not less than 255mm.
      Our office advocates ±170mm Risers & 260mm Treads.

      Personally, I believe anything higher than 200mm as a step is way too high for normal use and is not in the spirit of the UBBL provisions referred above.

      I hope the explanation helps.

      ReplyDelete
    25. As Salam tuan,

      Apakah dalam UBBL ada menyatakan tentang perlunya membina tiang (Column) dahulu sebelum membina dinding? Sebb saya ada jumpa di satu site yg mana kontraktor membina dinding batu bata dahulu baru mereka pasang forwrk (dua side sahaja) utk membina tiang (column)

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Metodologi pembinaan adalah bergantung kepada projek dan pembinanya. Jika telah ada "Method Statement" atau spesifikasi mengarahkan kontraktor membina mengikut cara spesifik maka kontraktor mesti mengikut Kaedah Pembinaan tersebut. Jika tiada sebarang Kaedah Pembinaan yang perlu diikuti, kontraktor boleh membina bagaimana carapun asal menepati kehendak kejuruteraan dan arkitektur.

        Delete
    26. Sir,

      can you share with me the UBBL for firewall in the building.

      thank you, really appreciate,
      SHAZ

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Sorry for the late reply
        I am sorry that I cannot be exact with my answer. Please review the UBBL in totality for the construction requirements and the fire requirements of fire walls, it is the best way.
        The synopsis I have prepared for each clause is a short cut for you to find the right provisions in the UBBL.

        Delete
    27. Dear En Badrul,

      The rules around the requirements for PA systems and Card Access seems a bit ambiguous and there just doesn't seem to a clear guideline. So my Questions are:

      Card Access - We want to install card access for emergency doors to control access. Our design provides for two over-ride systems. The 1st is by way of a break-glass at the each individual door which will enable a user to open a controlled door. The 2nd is that the control center is able to open all controlled doors at the flick of a button.

      Will this suffice or is there any rule that states that there cannot be card access systems installed on emergency doors.

      PA System

      What is the general for applying a speaker in given environement?

      Best regards, have a good day and thank you for taking the time to educate all of us with queries.

      Roy

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Emergency exit doors should be easily opened during emergency. There should not be any hindrance whatsoever.
        But it is a normal practice nowadays to install access control at doors hence your dilemma. As long as the door will be unlocked when there is an emergency you should be OK.
        But I very much doubt a remote switch is a practical solution.
        The door should be automatically unlocked upon receiving a signal of an emergency or always openable during emergency.

        There is are specific clauses in the UBBL about emergency speakers and you should refer to it and get a qualified engineer to explain further on the technical specifications for the PA System.

        As for general PA System, its best you talk to the AV professionals as I refer to them as well :)

        Delete
    28. hi sir,
      can we use emergency door as daily in out door?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Should not be any problems with that.
        Afterall it is just another door.

        Delete
    29. Salam & Good day sir,

      I have a confusion regarding the tenth schedule of UBBL particularly under Section IV. Offices,

      It stated that:
      1. 4 storeys and less or less than 1000 sq. m gross floor area - no extinguisher, no fire alarm and no emergency lighting shall be installed.

      2. 5 storeys and over or exceeding 1000 sq. m - hose reel, manual electrical fire alarm system and signal point units shall be installed

      So, my question is; if my building is only 3 storeys but over 1000 sq. m, which of the above applies and why?

      Thank you in advance. God bless.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. So sorry that I missed your question which is now already 4 months old.

        I believe you would have found the answer by now.

        The key word in the UBBL is 'or' in the 10th Sch under Occupancy Hazard IV OFFICES.

        If you exceed 1,000sqm of GROSS FLOOR AREA then you go to No 2 as you point of reference for Fire Protection System.

        Delete
      2. thank you sir, better late than never :-D

        Delete
    30. Hi,
      What are the regulation clauses for water & drainage services for a high rise building.

      ReplyDelete
    31. Plumbing and sanitary services are very much under local authorities [LA] jurisdiction as well as SPAN [Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara on licencing of tradesmen and standards] and the State Water Works [eg SYABAS in Selangor and WP KL and LAP in Perak, on implementation details].

      You would be best advised to consult the relevant LA and your M&E [Plumbing] consultants.

      ReplyDelete
    32. Why do we need to ensure that all building in Malaysia should comply with the building legislation as stipulated in UBBL?

      ReplyDelete
    33. Tuan Ar. Badrul,

      Can you share and advise regarding Protected staircase with Pressurization system and Protected corridor for shopping complex?

      Is there any regulation stipulated in by laws that we can combine the staircase and corridor without fire door as separator?

      We are facing the problems are :

      1) Protected staircase( escape route) has combined with protected corridor without Fire door Separator, however the corridor has 3/4 number of door for exit ( every Floor). is it comply with the UBBL or Performance Based approach?

      2) Initial area ( staircase area only) has increased due combination of staircases and corridor. The staircase has provide by pressurization system , based on MS 1472 and Guide to Fire Protection in Malaysia Stated , the pressure level at staircase should be 50 Pascal higher than outside staircase pressure level. is it comply wit UBBL or Performance based Approached ?

      3) The escape route for Staircase from 2F to the Basement (approximately 32meter height) , due to travel distance not comply with requirement less than 45 meter , Architect has proposed to provide escape tunnel(fire roller shutter) from staircase to outside perimeter.The activation of fire roller shutter c/w Normal mechanical ventilation during fire mode only.There is no door at basement staircase to Fire tunnel which effect staircase pressurization system. can you advise this matter ?

      your and comment and advise very much appreciated.

      Regards

      606

      ReplyDelete
    34. I will try to share what I know without going into details.
      I am not familiar and I have not gone through a Performance Based Fire Protection System exercise so I will not comment on it.
      1.
      Protected Staircase is, as described, to be protected from potential hazards especially fire and smoke or any elements which can lead to the hazards.
      2.
      Protected Corridor is a passage which is protected from potential hazard in order for occupants of buildings or firemen to reach safely to a Protected Staircase or Exits or Fire Fighting Lobbies or a Fireman's Lift.
      3.
      In certain circumstances architects may design a Protected Corridor leading to a Protected Staircase without any door between them but the architect would have taken into consideration that the whole route is a safe passage to exit the building.
      4.
      Pressurisation is another matter. Pressurisation is used when the architect are not able to ventilate naturally the protected staircases or corridors to make them safe for travelling while exiting in emergencies.
      And, UBBL 202(c) stated that with all doors closed, the air pressure differential should be less than 5mm wg or approx 50Pa.
      5.
      The last question about the basement tunnel cannot be answered without looking at the plans.
      But my understanding of the UBBL is that once you reached the max travel distance you should already be in a protected environment leading to an exit i.e. either to protected corridors or staircases.
      Again look up on what it means by the word protected in this instance.
      BTW, I believe the limits for travel distance for floors below street level are only 30m even with sprinklers [refer footnote of 7th Sch on Max Travel Distance].

      Hopefully the explanation helps.
      Warm regards.

      ReplyDelete
    35. salam tuan..

      mintak advice sikit.. skrg saya ade construct temporary site office.. client request utk standbty 1 point hydrant..

      apakah minimum requirement utk mewajibkan syarikat menyediakan 1 point hydrant utk temporary site office.. thank you..

      ReplyDelete
    36. salaam
      sila berhubung dengan bomba mengenai keperluan kebombaan untuk bangunan sementara.
      apapun setiap bangunan perlu berada dalam lingkungan 45m dari satu fire hydrant pillar di jalan untuk keselamatan iaitu untuk membolehkan bomba menggunakan fire hydrant pillar tersebut untuk menyedut air jika diperlukan.

      ReplyDelete
    37. good afternoon Mr Badrul, does this by law applies to structural such as bus shed, concrete pathways, or a shed to house junction boxes against weather? thanks!

      ReplyDelete
    38. Assalammualaikum Ar Badrulhisham,
      Please enlightened on
      1. clause 243. What's the travel distance for 2 blocks of serviced apartment?
      2. What’s the minimum height for floor to ceiling height in a serviced apartment of each components ie living, diving, bedroom, lobby etc.

      Thank you and wasalam
      KZSO

      ReplyDelete
    39. Assalam SIr,

      Which one is correct conditions for Standby Generator-Alternator Set is mandatory under UBBL?
      1) Standby supply for hose reel pump where hose reel system is required under 1th schedule.
      2)Standby supply for sprinkler pump where sprinkler system is required under 1th schedule.
      3) In a building where the top occupied floor is over 1.85m above fire appliance access level.
      4) Standby supply for hydrant pump where pressurised hydrant system is required under 1th schedule.

      or all of the above?

      Please help me. Tq.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Alaika salaam Peace upon You,
        I believe you are referring to 10th Schedule of the UBBL.
        I am not sure of your line of questions but let me try to share what I understand. But I don't understand your Q3 at all.

        a. Whenever you are required to provided fire hose reel, sprinkler and charged hydrant for a building under 10th Schedule, all these systems should be operational or ready to operate at an instance when triggered by the fire alarm.
        b. If that is the case, all the fire protection systems should be on essential power electrical supply and backed up with a generator set or alternatively to be run on diesel pumps.
        c. I believer there is no exception on any of the systems to be off the essential power supply.

        I hope the above answer your questions.
        Regards, wassalam

        Delete
    40. En. Badrul,

      May I know what is the maximum height where we can construct a wall between two neighbours living in a terrace houses? Is there any UBBL regarding this issue? What will be the rules and regulations pertaining this issue in Ipoh? Please advise. Thank you. Regards, Lim

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. There is a right of light and ventilation for your neighbours's house especially for link houses.

        It is best to consult the Local Authorities for their specific guidelines since MBI may have on set of rules and MDBG may have a different set of rules.

        Delete
    41. assalamualaikum
      berapakah minimum requirement utk lebar emergency staircase door exit - single/ double

      terima kasih

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. alaika salaam | salam kepada saudara / saudari
        Soalan ini tidak boleh dijawap secara umum.

        Sila rujuk nota berikut di dalam UBBL

        By Laws 175 – 177 - CALCULATION OF OCCUPANCY LOAD, CAPACITY OF EXITS, EXIT WIDTHS AND NUMBER OF STAIRCASES | Refer 7TH SCHEDULE – Maximum Travel Distances
        • CHECK PLANS, AREAS & PURPOSE GROUP then calculate Occupancy Load & Capacity Exits [By Law 176]
        • STAIRCASE NEED ONLY BE WIDE ENOUGH TO SERVE EACH FLOOR [but the largest floor capacity]
        • CHECK OTHER STAIRCASES CAN CATER OCCUPANCY LOAD when MINUS ONE STAIRCASE [By Law 177 (a)]
        • At least one staircase should be a minimum of 2 unit widths [552mm x 2 = 1104mm wide] [By Law 177 (e)]
        Except 900mm allowed where total occupancy of all floors less than 50.
        Refer By Laws 168 – 169, 181 & 182


        Delete
    42. Assalamualaikum Ar Badrul,

      Any requirements for distance atau minimum distance between 'knock out window/glass claddings especially for curtain wall wall system for high rise. Any specific requirements in %tage, or min nos of 'glass knock out for firemen' in high rise using curtain wall systems or claddings? saya dah try look in red book and UBBL, no specific requiremnets.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Salaam Sdr Ali
        Sorry, I can't find the details in my record but we discussed the matter with Bomba before we submit our plans.
        Best to discuss the requirements with Bomba.

        Anybody can share knowledge on this ?

        Delete
    43. Sir,

      How to calculate the permitted limits of unprotected areas with the use of Sixth Schedule?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. You have to know your compartmentation and openings of your building on the relevant boundaries. And, you have to actually read the UBBL and follow the code.
        I can't explain it here, unfortunately.

        Delete
    44. Assalamualaikum sir,
      saya ada soalan berkenaan Clause 118 (Refuse Chutes & Alternate Means For Disposal of Refuse)

      (4) For non-residential buildings, no refuse chutes will be permitted. The removal of refuse chutes and trash in such buildings shall be by way of the service lift or other means to the satisfaction of local authority.

      Persoalannya, kenapa di Malaysia bangunan selain daripada residential tidak dibenarkan ada refuse chutes ? misalnya bangunan pejabat yang mempunyai tingkat lebih daripada 4

      ReplyDelete
    45. Salam sir, kenapa dlm UBBL Clause 118 (4) menyatakan selain daripada non-residential building, refuse chutes tidak dibenarkan ?
      Diharap dapat membantu saya

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. ByLaw 118 REFUSE CHUTE
        Refuse Chutes as a rubbish disposal system has not been used for many years, I believe, due to the users attitude and its potential fire hazard.
        1. Many oversized unwanted materials and rubbish had been recorded stuck in these chutes due to Malaysians bad attitude towards common properties.
        2. Flammability issues of these refuse when caught fire could spread up the chutes was also a major discouragement of the system.

        In fact, UBBL version 2012 has had the ByLaw 118 DELETED.
        So, its best to forget about the refuse chutes option altogether.

        Delete
    46. Assalamualaikum Sir Badrul. Berkenaan clause 53, building materials, adakah ada panduan jenis2 material untuk dinding dan struktur kilang berdasarkan kepada jenis operasi industri?
      Bahan untuk dinding kilang ditetapkan dgn bahan class 0, adakan garispanduan tertentu untuk dirujuk bagi pemilihan bahan jenis non-cumbastable?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Pemilihan bahan untuk dinding dan struktur kilang adalah berdasarkan kegunaan dan tahap rintangan api yang diperlukan untuk ruang-ruang di dalam kilang.

        Pastikan bahan-bahan yang dicadangkan ada keputusan ujian SIRIM dan diluluskan BOMBA.

        Delete
    47. Salam Tn, adakah standard dlm UBBL , SIRIM atau BOMBA , guideline mengira tingkat (floor numbering) TQ

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Salaam Tn Hj Zaini

        PENAMAAN ARAS BANGUNAN

        Dalam UBBL [saya merujuk UBBL versi am 1984 dan Selangor 1986 versi 2012, Jadual Pertama], jadual bayaran pengemukaan pelan bangunan adalah berdasarkan penamaan aras bangunan seperti yang biasa kita lihat iaitu penamaan TINGKAT.

        Tetapi, di dalam jadual tersebut UBBL menggunakan penamaan yang tidak konvensional untuk tingkat-tingkat atas iaitu,

        TINGKAT BAWAH [Konvensionnya sama],
        TINGKAT PERTAMA [Konvensionalnya Tingkat 1],
        TINGKAT KEDUA [Konvensionalnya Tingkat 2],
        TINGKAT KETIGA [Konvensionalnya Tingkat 3],

        atau
        Ground Floor, 1st Floor, 2nd Floor etc, dalam versi Inggeris, dan seterusnya.

        Saya tiada rujukan untuk SIRIM atau BOMBA.
        Bagaimanapun, Bomba biasanya menggunakan penamaan seperti yang di kemukakan oleh arkitek dan jurutera.

        Delete
    48. Dear Ar Badrul,

      Thank you for your kind assistance to all. My query is regarding the Fire Resistance Period to building elements and fire doors.

      1. Would you mind advising how to check or determine the required FRP to various areas. For example to protected lobby, protected corridor, electrical riser, plant rooms, electrical rooms etc. I have referred to Ninth Schedule which lists the fire resistance for elements to the overall building types (according to purpose group), but not really specific areas. Is it ok to use the FRP given in Ninth Schedule to apply to the whole building element. How do we check different FRP required to different rooms. Is there a standard guide?

      2. If the FRP of building (wall) element is stated as 1 1/2 hours and where the fire doors shall have FRP of not less than half the requirement of the wall : assume since there are no 45 min doors, the minimum should always be 1 hr. Correct?
      Thank you.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Guidelines for Fire Resistance of materials [Notional Periods of Fire Resistance, ByLaws 158(3) & 224] are given in the Ninth Schedule
        but
        the Fire Resistance Period for doors and fire stops [for openings and penetrations] should be referred to ByLaws 136-142, 148, 161-164, 194, 218, among others.

        A door need to be rated AT LEAST half of the wall rating [ByLaw 162(3)] and never less than 1/2hr.

        and DON'T FORGET LIFT DOORS as well, ByLaw 152,
        which may need to be a full fledge 1hr FRP rated in certain instances instead of the minimum 1/2hr FRP.

        As for required FRP rating, you really need to look at the compartmentation requirements under Ninth Schedule and also the fire hazard rating.

        ByLaw 139 on the separation of fire risk areas is actually is open for interpretation and determination by Bomba and the Local Authorities, hence the need to discuss with Bomba for these areas. From experience, I normally allow the areas with the risks of explosion and fire [especially with flammable liquids or gas] would be require 4hr FRP walls. Otherwise, 2hr FRP is sufficient.

        Delete
      2. Dear Ar. Badrul,

        As you explained according to the By-Laws 162(3) that a door need to be rated AT LEAST half of the wall rating and never less than 1/2 hr. However, the By-Law 162(2) states that openings (fire doors) shall have FRP rating that is same as the wall rating specified in the 9th schedule.

        Are the information in the two By-Laws are conflicting with each others or I have misinterpreted the information. Would your mind to explain and clarify further.

        Thank you.

        Delete
    49. Salam Tuan,

      Untuk shoplot yang hendak diubahsuai kepa hotel budget atau lodge apa requirement dia ? i was told that building of 2 or less storey do not need to have bomba certification.

      Is this true ?

      ReplyDelete
    50. Alaika salaam, Salam Sejahtera bagi Saudara juga
      Untuk makluman, semua perubahan kegunaan bangunan, tiada had ketinggian, perlu mendapat kelulusan pihak berkuasa tempatan termasuk pihak Bomba.
      Sila dapatkan khidmat nasihat arkitek profesional untuk cadangan saudara.

      ReplyDelete
    51. Hi Sir, my name is Ann. I recently moved into my new condo which is 22 storeys high. May I know what is the required thickness for the concrete floor of the multi-storey car park (ground floor to third floor, each floor has about 180-200 car park lots)? Is there any where I can check? I suspect the floor thickness is not up to standard. Thanks a lot for any advice you can provide.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Hi,
        Thickness of structures are calculated by the structural engineers and in conformity to Malaysian Standards and/or British / European Standards.

        The consulting structural engineers of the building are the most suitable persons for you to address this question.

        Delete
    52. Dear Sir,

      Would you be kindly to advise By-Laws 165 and 7th Schedule?

      Scenario 1: Assuming that the imaginary project is a condo unit with a master bedroom in the far end corner.

      Does it means that the travel distance (dead-end limit) in the condo unit can start measuring from the door of master bedroom provided that the master bedroom has fulfilled the requirements of By-Laws 1984 that the remote point within the master bedroom to its door does not exceed 15m or requirements of Amendment 2012 that area of master bedroom does not exceed 15 sqm.

      Why would the travel distance to the exists in an open area needs to be reduced to 2/3 of the permitted travel distance? Would it be correct if the remote point of occupancy is at the center of open area if both ends have final exits.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. One residential unit is considered to be populated by less than 6 persons [Normally assumed as 5 persons]. And hence the travel distance is measured from the front door; provided that one travels within the unit from the farthest end to the front door within 15m.

        In an open plan design, the bylaw reduced the travel distance to 2/3 of the permissible travel distance to allow for 1/3 of travel for people to manoeuvre between furniture once the space is fitted out.

        Delete
    53. Hi Ar Badrul,
      We are keen to use fire-rated glass for the ground & mezzanine floor fire lobbies of a 14 storey commercial building, similar to this image from Oslo Airport: http://greenbuildingnews.com/2016/11/16/fire-rated-glass-advances-green-building-designs/
      Do you know how we can get bomba to accept the fireglass and approve our proposal?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Hi KC,
        You will need to consult Bomba with your proposal and details of your glass since I believe Bomba no longer allows glass in fire lobbies.

        You may need to get a fire rating certification for your proposed glass.

        Delete
      2. A bit more information in UBBL 2012 on the above matter:


        [UBBL SELANGOR Rev2012] By Law 211A [NEW] | CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

        211A(1) Construction components to comply with this By Law

        211A(2) INTUMESCENT PAINT may be used for Structural Steel provided
        (a) It a proprietary system complying to BS476
        (b) Coating of paint onto structural steel and its maintenance to comply with BS8202.

        211A(3) FIRE RATED GLASS may be used for Compartment Walls & Floors, Enclosure to Smoke Lobbies, Fire Fighting Lobbies, Protected Shafts without Exit Staircase and Fire Lifts IF PROTECTED WITH AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM provided
        (a) Walls and Doors have FIRE RESISTANCE complying to BS476 [Wall] and MS1073 [Doors]
        (b) Walls and Doors meet CLASS A IMPACT PERFORMANCE complying with BS6206 or AS2208

        211A(4) Walls, Ceiling, Roof Covering & Finishes SHALL NOT contain PLASTIC MATERIALS

        211A(5) To use latest AS | Australian Standards

        Delete
      3. [UBBL SELANGOR Rev2012] By Law 252A [NEW] | Atriums (Atria) in Buildings

        252A Atrium permitted when
        (a) HORIZONTAL DIMENSION ≥ 6m & AREA OF OPENING ≥ 95sqm
        (b) EXITS SEPARATELY ENCLOSED from atrium; but may be within atrium
        (c) ATRIUM IS OPEN & UNOBSTRUCTED
        (d) Building protected by AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS
        (e) SPRINKLERS may be OMITTED FROM CEILING of atrium if >17m from floor
        (f) Smoke Control / Exhaust System of atrium & adjacent spaces as per Table 1 in the Rev2012 UBBL
        (g) Activated by smoke detectors, sprinkler, automatic detector system and Manual Control for Bomba only
        (h) Atrium separated from Adjacent Space by 1hr FIRE RESISTANCE BARRIER except
        i. ANY 3 LEVELS may open without enclosure and
        ii. FLOAT GLASS WALLS, held in frames which can deflect, may be used in lieu of FIRE BARRIER where AUTO SPRINKLERS are SPACED ≤ 1.8m from glass ALONG BOTH SIDES OF GLASS WALLS & ≤ 0.3m FROM GLASS SURFACE to wet the glass

        Delete
    54. Salam Tuan,

      Ada beberapa soalan:-

      1) Based on UBBL, berapakah area per person untuk office design.

      2) Office yg mempunyai fixed workstation, berapakah min. jarak laluan antara workstation ( any clause in UBBL)

      3) Office design in open plan, jika ada lebih dari satu tenant, perlu construct common walkway. berapakah jarak lebar (in UBBL) common walkway leading to exit staircase.

      Terima Kasih

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Best to consult an architect to review your planning and to advise you as your question is very specific.

        1. UBBL does set an area per person rule for an office but it may not work for your office [Refer 7th Schedule]
        2. You will also be able to calculate exit widths from the same 7th Schedule.
        3. Different tenancy usage of a floor may need to be treated differently but if there are no security issues, exits to comply with the max travel distance and exit width referred to in the 7th Schedule of the UBBL.

        Delete
    55. Dear Encik Badrul,

      My condominium has many floors. For security reason I want to prevent occupants of a floor from accessing to other floors using the fire exit staircase. I am thinking of making the doors to the fire staircase on each floor open only one way, i.e can enter the staircase but cannot enter any floor from the staircase. Once an occupant enters the staircase he has to walk all the way down and exit at the ground floor where no residential units are located.

      Will this one-way door violate any Bomba requirements?

      Thanks in advance

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Except for Bomba Fire Fighting Staircases, normally they will have Wet or Dry Riser Hydrant nearby, you may legally be able to do what you suggested, i.e. having a one way access into the staircase.

        Please consult a building professional, likes us architects :), before embarking to change all the locksets though.

        Delete
    56. Sir,

      Can you advise if there is any width requirement for escape route leading to the exit?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Please refer to the 7th Schedule of the UBBL on Calculation of Occupant Load and Capacity of Exits.

        Delete
    57. salam tuan,

      untuk mezzanine floor, ada akta tak yg membuktikan itu tak boleh di consider sebagai 1 storey?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Alaikasalaam
        The UBBL defines a mezzanine floor as any floor interposed [to place in an intervening position / to be or come between : Merriam-Webster] between the main floors of a building greater than 2.5m width ...

        By-Law 170 hinted and strengthen the above definition that Mezzanine is not a Storey by itself.

        To define it, some Local Authorities used to define a Mezzanine being a floor less than 1/3 of the Main Floor.
        Any larger would be considered as another floor.

        Delete
    58. Tuan,

      I stay in a 23 Storey condominium. The fire escape door at ground level is permanently unlocked because of bomba requirement. It is located next to a service lift where contractors load and unload things. This is a security risk because anybody can enter the condominium via the fire escape door. Can entry through this door from outside be controlled by a break glass panel? From inside, the door can be unlocked automatically.

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. You may be referring to the fire stairs next to the Bomba lift [Often the Bomba lift is also the Service Lift].

        If it is true, Bomba will need to have access to the staircase in case of an emergency. If it is a firefighting staircase, that staircase must to be accessible from inside and outside by Bomba for obvious reasons.

        But, I believe you can arrange to have controlled access system which will disarm the magnetic lock and unlock the door, or similar locking devices, in the event of fire or other emergency [by linking the lock to the fire control alarm system]

        Delete
      2. BTW, you may need to consult an M&E Engineer to advise on the interlocking of the access system to the fire control alarm.

        Delete
    59. Salam Tuan,

      I live in a condominium built in the 90s. The lift lobby and the entrance lobby at the ground floor have very low ceilings (I think about 9ft max) compared to the current condos which have at least 15ft high ceilings. What's worse is that there are supporting beams that extend downwards from the ceiling about 12 inches. No doubt, we feel claustrophobic.

      What are the minimum heights for entrance lobbies and lift lobbies? I searched the UBBL but can only find min height for rooms. What's the regulations and where can I find guidance?

      Terima kaseh



      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. Building built after 1984 must comply with UBBL 1984. I imagine your condo complies with the UBBL.

        For your information, you can refer to the UBBL
        By Law 46 - HEIGHT OF ROOMS in OTHER BUILDINGS than in By Laws 44 & 45,
        • Ground Floor Min 3.0m.
        • Other Floors Height 2.75m
        • Basement Height 2.5m
        • Habitable Room Headroom Height 2.0m
        • Verandahway Height 3.0m

        Delete
    60. Tuan, are clauses 167 and 174 essentially referring to the same storey exit spacing requirements? If yes, why does the former and latter adopts 4.5m and 5m respectively? What's the rationale? Thanks

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. I think it was an oversight with the difference in dimensions.

        New UBBL 2012 has consolidated the distance to be 5m from closest edges of doors
        [UBBL SELANGOR Rev2012] By Law 167 [AMENDED]
        167(1) Minimum 2nos separate exits for each storey to be placed 5.0m apart

        Delete
    61. Tuan,

      1) It is correct that room with 6 or more persons occupied, must have 2 exit doors? Under which by-law I can refer? Or it is depend on size of the room to have 2 exit doors?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. in general, rooms with occupants of more than 6 persons shall require 2 exits 5m apart.

        It is related to the following bylaw
        [UBBL SELANGOR Rev2012] By Law 165 [AMENDED]
        165(3) Any individual room with ≤ 6 persons, travel distance is measured from the door, PROVIDED the area of the room ≤ 15 sqm.

        Delete
    62. Morning Sir,

      May I know smoke detector is it compulsory inside residential unit?

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. If you refer to the latest UBBL ver 2012, only service apartments, hotels and the like [ie commercial developments] will be imposed with higher specifications fire detection and protection systems.

        Except for dwellings of more than 2 storeys, where in Smoke Detectors are required at the top of the staircase[s],
        Residential units are required to have PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS only.

        Delete
    63. Good day Sir,

      Do I need to go through building plan submission including BOMBA if I want to add a mezzanine floor to the shop house with high ceiling?

      However, the existing ceiling height cannot have the headroom clearance of 2.55m from the mezzanine floor plus the 3m from the ground floor to mezzanine floor, as per the UBBL.

      Thank you for your advice

      ReplyDelete
      Replies
      1. All amendments to floor areas must be submitted to the local authorities for their approval.
        Please consult your local authorities on their submission requirements.

        Headroom requirement is based on use. Please re-read the bylaw on your headroom requirements.

        Delete
      2. By Laws 42 – 44 - MINIMUM AREAS, DIMENSIONS AND HEIGHT CONTROLS FOR ROOMS IN BUILDINGS

        i. Headroom = Finished Floor Level to Soffit of the Lowest Projection above the floor | By Law 2
        ii. Height of Room = Finished Floor Level to Underside of Ceiling above it excluding plaster thickness | By Law 2
        iii. Storey Height = Finished Floor Level to Finished Floor Level above it | By Law 2
        v. Wall Height = Base of Wall to the highest part of Wall or ½ height of a Gable Wall | By Law 2

        By Law 42 | RESIDENTIALS
        • Residential Habitable Rooms Height 2.5m
        • Kitchen Height 2.25m
        • All Buildings - Bathrooms, Porches, Balconies etc Height 2.0m

        By Law 44 - MINIMUM HEIGHT CONTROLS for ROOMS IN ALL BUILDINGS
        • Shophouses - Ground Floor Room Height Min 3.0m & Other Floors Room Height 2.5m but if depth of Floor >10.5m then Other Floors Room Height 2.55m
        • Schools – Min 3.0m High Headroom
        • Hospitals - Patients Accommodation Room Height Min 3.0m
        • Factory - Min 3.0m High Headroom

        By Law 46 - HEIGHT OF ROOMS in OTHER BUILDINGS than in By Laws 44 & 45,
        • Ground Floor Min 3.0m.
        • Other Floors Height 2.75m
        • Basement Height 2.5m
        • Habitable Room Headroom Height 2.0m
        • Verandahway Height 3.0m

        Delete
    64. Assalam Ar. Badrul.

      I have some curiosity regarding the UBBL 7th Schedule.e Is it Architect has to comply the calculation of the occupancy load or M&E ? TQ

      ReplyDelete
    65. Let me answer in general.
      Architects are to lead in all the design and technical compliance matters. That goes for the UBBL compliance as well.
      The M&E and C&S consultants will assist in achieving the said compliance.

      ReplyDelete