Fire is a tragic incident that affects many buildings every day, including residential complexes, office buildings, factories, and more. Its spread goes hand in hand with the expansion of industry and urban development. On the other hand, population growth and migration to cities lead to urban sprawl and an increasing tendency for people to live in tall and densely populated buildings. A fire in such buildings can have severe consequences and result in significant loss of life.
Statistics released by relevant authorities indicate that each year, large amounts of the nation’s capital are lost due to disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and fires. Alongside these losses, a significant portion of the country’s human resources and facilities are redirected to the affected areas, which are in urgent need of reconstruction. Tragically, many innocent lives are also lost in such events.
Moreover, modern urban life—especially in cities that have expanded with little regard for safety regulations—has not only caused numerous problems but has also brought about fundamental changes in human work and lifestyle patterns. The widespread use of flammable materials and equipment, the increasing size and height of buildings, and many other factors have collectively contributed to a higher risk factor, subsequently leading to more frequent fires and the spread of dangers within buildings.
At the same time, looking at the indicators of economic growth and development reveals that investment in the housing sector has consistently accounted for a significant share of the country’s gross domestic product. Therefore, building safety—both from cultural and social perspectives and in terms of protecting national assets—holds particular importance.
The fire department approval is a certificate issued by the fire department of each city, confirming that the safety systems have been properly designed, implemented, and maintained in accordance with fire safety regulations. This certificate is required for obtaining the final building completion certificate (municipal ownership document) or for renewing the business license of any commercial establishment.
In this context, safety systems include fire alarm systems, fire suppression systems, smoke management and control systems for parking areas, positive pressure systems, structural and architectural measures, as well as auxiliary systems.
The purpose of obtaining fire department approval is to ensure a high level of safety and to prevent potential incidents. In the context of new building constructions, the fire department introduces certified fire protection contractors and, through continuous training, works to enhance their knowledge and expertise in fire prevention and safety systems.
Fire protection contracting companies are responsible for consulting, installation, execution, and obtaining the necessary approvals from the fire department. Installing fire alarm and fire suppression systems is one of their core activities.
It is strongly recommended that developers, at the very beginning of their construction activities, select a certified fire protection company—one that has been approved by the fire department—as a consultant. Construction should then proceed in accordance with the fire department’s requirements and standards. Additionally, the building’s structure itself must be designed and constructed with safety considerations to ensure a secure environment.
According to urban development regulations, all buildings are required to implement safety measures and obtain approval from the fire department. The installation of parking ventilation systems, as well as fire detection and suppression systems, is mandatory for all buildings. However, specific rules and requirements may vary from city to city.
In all types of buildings—residential, administrative, commercial, and industrial—relevant safety standards must be observed. These include compliance with architectural safety regulations, fire alarm and suppression systems, exhaust systems, and more. All these approvals must be obtained before the project’s completion and must be certified by fire department experts.
