Performance-based fire protection of historical structures

Performance-based Regulatory Systems (PBRS) are being implemented in many countries, replacing the traditional prescriptive systems. These PBRS are especially attractive for addressing in a rational way the special needs of unique buildings, and there are no more unique buildings than those of historical or cultural significance. Thus, performance approaches are well suited to finding the balance between the need to protect often-irreplaceable buildings and their contents and the desire to preserve the significant historical or cultural aspects of the building. In this paper the authors will discuss some important considerations in using performance approaches in the development of a fire protection strategy for historical structures and will cite examples of how this was done in a recent restoration design of a historic theater in Bari, Italy. Performance vs. Prescriptive Bidding regulations in any country reflect the public expectation for the built environment with regard to the minimum acceptable requirements for health, safety, and welfare, and in some cases for environmental, energy, and culture. Historically, building regulations have been prescriptive in form, describing the acceptability of, or requirements for materials, products and systems that have been shown by experience to result in acceptable buildings. Such prescriptive systems have serve