How must fire protection features be designed according to the Building Code?

Fire protection features must be designed in conformance with good fire protection engineering practice to ensure safety and effectiveness in preventing and managing fire hazards. This approach is rooted in the understanding that comprehensive fire safety is not just about compliance with regulations; it involves applying engineering principles that account for the complexities of fire behavior, building materials, and structural integrity. Utilizing good fire protection engineering practice enables the integration of systems and methods that can be tailored to the specific characteristics of a building, thereby enhancing the overall safety of occupants and the structure itself.

Designing fire protection features based solely on cost, aesthetic requirements, or a narrow focus on government-approved materials would not prioritize the effectiveness or reliability of the fire protection systems. Each of these considerations is important, but they should not compromise adherence to recognized engineering practices that are fundamental to ensuring a safe environment.