Introduction
iFluids Engineering and Consultancy WLL has prepared the Compliance Report for the Front End Engineering Design (FEED) of the New Port Control Tower at Ras Laffan Port for Qatar Energy. Compliance reports are essential to ensure that projects align with safety regulations, building codes, and occupational standards. Learn more about Compliance Reports here.
Project Overview
Qatar Petroleum (QP) plans to construct a New Port Control Tower at Ras Laffan Industrial City. Pell Frischmann (PF) has been appointed to complete the FEED for the project, which is structured in two phases:
- Phase 1A: Site selection and preparation of discipline design briefs.
- Phase 1B: Development of project FEED deliverables, including conceptual and detailed design.
Tower Design & Functionality
The New Port Control Tower features five occupied levels and an accessible rooftop, each with designated functions:
- Level 1 & 2: Harbour Administration (General Business)
- Level 3: VIP/VVIP Viewing Area & Meeting Room (Assembly)
- Level 4: Emergency/Search & Rescue Centre (General Business)
- Level 5: Vessel Traffic Centre & Port Control Station (General Business)
- Rooftop: VTS equipment, cameras, radars, antennas (Non-Occupied)
Compliance with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (2012 Edition)
The Ras Laffan New Port Control Tower design complies with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (2012 Edition), which applies occupancy-based safety regulations. The code includes:
- Nine Core Chapters applicable to all buildings
- One Chapter specific to High-Rise Buildings
- 26 Chapters addressing specific occupancy requirements
Since the tower exceeds 75 feet (23 meters) in height, it qualifies as a High-Rise Building under NFPA 101. The structure is subject to strict life safety regulations and does not qualify for exemptions applicable to shorter buildings.
Occupancy Classification & Code Requirements
Key Compliance Steps:
- Classification of Occupancy & Hazard of Contents
- Establishing the building occupancy type and occupant load
- Determining applicable hazard classifications
- Application of High-Rise & Business Occupancy Chapters
- Ensuring compliance with the most restrictive requirements when multiple codes apply
- Confirming adherence to high-rise building safety regulations
Means of Egress & Safety Measures
Multiple Use Occupancy
The New Port Control Tower is classified as Separated Occupancy, meaning:
- Different floors are separated by fire-resistant assemblies
- Floor/ceiling structures provide the required fire separation
Means of Egress Compliance
NFPA 101 mandates at least two independent exit routes to enhance occupant safety. Design considerations include:
- Two stairwells with independent ventilation to prevent smoke/toxic gas spread
- 2-hour fire resistance rating for stairwell enclosures
- Compliance with exit discharge regulations, ensuring that no more than 50% of the exits pass through an internal discharge area
Stairwell & Exit Considerations
- The occupancy exceeds 25 persons, requiring two means of egress
- The VIP/VVIP Level is accessible to the public, disqualifying the tower from “Tower” category exemptions
- Blast overpressure scenarios were not identified as a major hazard; primary risks include fire and toxic gas release
Conclusion
The New Port Control Tower at Ras Laffan complies with the NFPA 101 requirements for High-Rise Buildings and Business Occupancy. The project integrates fire protection measures, egress planning, and multiple-use occupancy considerations to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
