Life Safety Code Consulting
HKA provides focused fire & life safety code consulting advice to project teams at all stages during in the design and construction process and on all building typologies. Using our understanding of the complex building form, and our deep knowledge of both local and national building/fire safety codes and standards, HKA’s innovative code compliance strategies allow architectural expression to be maximized while respecting the project’s financial framework.
Life Safety Analysis
The use of advanced simulation and analysis, to demonstrate the acceptability of alternative code compliance proposals, is an approach that is being increasingly permitted by many Jurisdictions. HKA recognizes the importance of such technologies and continually invests in the latest approaches and software tools in this area of performance based design. HKA are able to adopt the most up-to-date technical capabilities and analysis methods to support our innovative code compliance strategies such as fire & smoke modelling, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and full 3D building egress analysis.
Lot Line & Cantilever Building Fire Spread Analysis
HKA provides specialized fire spread analysis for lot line conditions and buildings cantilevering over adjacent structures, in accordance with the requirements of the New York City Building Code. We evaluate exterior wall configurations, separation distances, and potential flame propagation to help architects, developers, and owners achieve code compliance and improve life safety. Our analyses support innovative building designs while addressing the complex fire protection challenges associated with overhanging and cantilevered construction in dense urban environments.
NYC Existing Building Code (EBC) Assessments
HKA provides architectural and life safety condition assessments required for select alterations under New York City's new Existing Building Code. As NYS-licensed Professional Engineers, our design professionals visually assess the parameters mandated by the new code (e.g., fire-resistant elements, means of egress, exterior wall openings, property line fire separations, interior finishes, and more), identifying unsafe or deteriorated conditions early so they can be addressed within the project's scope. This proactive approach helps architects, owners, and developers maintain compliance and keep alterations moving smoothly through the DOB's new existing building process.