What is the minimum fire resistance for walls separating a library from another part of a building?

The enclosure walls should have a fire resistance rating of not less than 2 hours (Clause 4.2.1).

What is the maximum allowed height for book stacks?

Single-tier book stacks should not exceed 2.2 m in height (Clause 7.2.1).

What kind of fire suppression system is recommended?

Automatic sprinkler systems or automatic gaseous (carbon dioxide/clean agent) systems are recommended, especially for compact storage areas or those with highly valuable collections (Clause 6.3).

Is smoking allowed in libraries or archives?

No, smoking and carrying open flames are strictly prohibited in all areas where records are stored or used (Clause 9.3).

IS 11460

: 1985

Code of Practice for Fire Safety of Libraries and Archives

CurrentSpecializedCode of PracticeBIMFire Safety · Fire Safety

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This code provides guidelines for fire prevention, life safety, and fire protection in libraries and archives. It details requirements for building construction, storage arrangements, fire detection and suppression systems, and operational procedures to protect valuable collections and ensure human safety.

Code of Practice for Fire Safety of Libraries and Archives

Quick Reference Values

Minimum fire resistance for enclosure walls2 hours

Minimum fire resistance for doors in fire-rated walls1 hour

Minimum aisle width between stacks750 mm

Maximum height of single-tier book stacks2.2 m

Maximum compartment floor area in fire-resistive building1400 sq. m

Maximum travel distance to an exit30 m

Practical Notes

This standard is from 1985 and should be used in conjunction with the latest version of the National Building Code of India (SP 7), specifically Part 4 on Fire and Life Safety, which may contain more current requirements.

For protecting irreplaceable materials like rare books or archives, gaseous fire suppression systems (clean agents) are strongly recommended over water-based sprinklers to avoid water damage during a discharge.

Strict adherence to housekeeping (Clause 9) and limiting combustible materials is a low-cost, high-impact measure to enhance fire safety in these high-risk occupancies.