NISTNCSTAR1-1H

Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation of the

World Trade Center Disaster

Post-Construction Modifications

to Fire Protection and Life Safety

Systems of the World Trade

Center Towers

Raymond A. Grill Duane A. Johnson

Notional Institute of Standards and Technology • Technology Administrotion • U.S. Deportment of Commerce

Abstract

This report was prepared to support the analysis of building and fire codes and standards of the National

Institute of Standards and Technology World Trade Center (WTC) Investigation. The purpose of this report is to document the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey guidelines for inspection, repair,

and modifications to fire protection and egress systems in WTC 1, 2, and 7. This includes guidelines

governing the inspection and upgrading of fire alann and fire suppression systems; the reapplication of

fireproofing; and the upgrading of elevators, hoistways, and elevator lobbies.

This report also documents repairs and modifications made to the fire protection and life safety systems on the affected floors of WTC 1 and WTC 2.

Keywords: Compartmentation, elevators, emergency power, fire alarm, fire protection, fire safety, fire sprinklers, high-rise buildings, inspections, interior finish, means of egress, pressurization, venting, voice

communication, World Trade Center.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation iii
Abstract

This page intentionally left blank.

iv NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Table of Contents

Abstract iii

List of Figures ix

List of Tables xi

List of Acronyms and Abbreviations xiii

Glossary xv

Preface xvii

Section I PANYNJ Guidelines for Inspection, Repair, and Modifications to Fire Protection

Systems 1

Executive Summary 3

Chapter 1 Introduction 7

Chapter 2 Memorandums of Understanding 9

Chapter 3 Tenant Construction Review Manuals 1

1

3.1 General 1

1

3.2 Fire Suppression 12

3.3 Fire Alarm 13

3.4 Fireproofing 13

3.5 Egress 14

Chapter 4 Design Guidelines 15

4.1 General 15

4.2 Fire Suppression 15

4.3 Fire Alarm 17

4.4 Fireproofing 18

4.5 Egress 18

4.6 Elevators and Hoistways 19

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation v
Table of Contents

Chapters

Operation and Maintenance IVIanuais 21

5.1 Fire Suppression 21

5.2 Fire Alarm 26

Chapter 6 Port Authority Facility Condition Survey Program 35

6.1 General 35

6.2 Fireproofing 35

Chapter?

Structural Integrity Testing and Inspection Program 37

7.1 Fireproofing 37

Chapter 8 Tenants Manual ..39

8.1 General 39

Chapter 9 Other Documents... 41

9. 1 Fireproofing 41

Chapter 10 References. 43

Section II Post-Construction Fire Protection and Life Safety Modifications to the World Trade

Center Towers 45

Executive Summary 47

Chapter 11 Introduction 49

Chapter 12 Base Building Modifications to Affected Floors .......51

12.1 Modification Programs in Progress or Completed as of September 11, 2001 51

12.2 Modification Programs in Development 54

vi NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Table of Contents

Chapter 13

Tenant Modifications to Affected Floors 55

13.1 WTC 1 Tenant Alterations on Affected Floors (78-84) 56

13.2 WTC 2 Tenant Alterations on Affected Floors (94-98) 57

Chapter 14 References 59

Appendix A

Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the World Trade Center 61

NISTNCSTAR1-1H, WTC Investigation vii
Table of Contents

I

This page intentionally left blank.

viii NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
List of Figures

Figure P-1. The eight projects in the federal building and fire safety investigation of the WTC

disaster xix

NIST NCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation ix
List of Figures

This page intentionally left blank.

X NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
List of Tables

Table P-1. Federal building and fire safety investigation of the WTC disaster xviii

Table P-2. Public meetings and briefings of the WTC Investigation xxi

Table 8-1. WTC consultants, as of 1984 39

Table 12-1. Contracts involved with the fire alarm upgrades 52

Table 13-1. Summary of WTC 1 tenant modifications within affected floors 56

Table 13-2. Summary of WTC 2 tenant modifications within affected floors 57

NISTNCSTAR1-1H, WTC Investigation xi
List of Tables

This page intentionally left blank.

xii NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

Acronyms

ADA Americans with Disabilities Act

A C HTA H AblM American Society for Testing and Materials

Building Code of the City of New York (Local Law 76)

BFP Bureau oi Fire Prevention

FDNY New York City Fire Department

HVAC 1 A.' A.'\ i.' J' J'i* heating, ventilating, and air conditioning

T trr> A LhKA Leslie E. Robertson Associates

MER Mechanical Equipment Room

MOU Memorandum of Understanding

MrL Maintenance Procedure Card

NFPA National Fire Protection Association

NYCDB New York City Department ot Buildings

XTTC 1^ Nib 1 National Institute of Standards and Technology

PANYNJ Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

R&D research and development

WTC World Trade Center

WTC 1 World Trade Center 1 (North Tower)

WTC 2 World Trade Center 2 (South Tower)

WTC 7 World Trade Center 7

Abbreviations

°F degrees Fahrenheit

cfm cubic foot per minute

ft foot

ft^ square foot

in. inch

lb pound

V voh

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation xiii
List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

W watt

yd' square yard

XIV NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Glossary

active fire protection - A means to help prevent the loss of life and property from fire by extinguishing,

suppressing or controlling a fire through functional systems. Sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, and

smoke control systems are examples of active fire protection.

area of refuge - A floor area to which egress is made through a horizontal exit or supplemental vertical

exit.

combustible - A material that is not determined to be noncombustible.

damper - A device installed in heating, ventilating, and air conditioning ductwork used to prevent the spread of fire and/or smoke. Dampers are provided to maintain a fire resistance rating of the assembly

being penetrated.

detector - An initiation device that automatically detects a change in state, such as presence of smoke,

high temperature or abnonnal rate of temperature rise.

fire alarm system - A system, automatic or manual, arranged to give a signal indicating a fire emergency

and initiate the appropriate response.

fire resistance rating - The time in hours that materials or their assemblies will withstand fire exposure

as determined by a fire test.

fireproofing - Materials or assembhes used to provide a fire resistance rating to a building component.

firestop - A solid or compact, tight closure to retard the spread of flames or hot gases within concealed

spaces.

initiation device - A system component that originates a change in state signal in the fire alarm system.

An initiation device begins the life safety processes, such as evacuation, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning shut down, elevator recall; etc.

manual fire alarm box - A manually operated initiation device that originates a change-in-state signal in the fire alarm system.

means of egress - A continuous and unobstructed path of vertical and horizontal travel from any point in a building to a public way. The means of egress consists of the exit access, the exit, and the exit discharge.

noncombustible - A material that, in the form in which it is used in construction, will not ignite and bum

when subjected to fire. However, any material which liberates flammable gas when heated to any

temperature up to 1,380 °F for 5 min shall not be considered noncombustible.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation XV
Glossary

notification appliance - A fire alann system component such as a bell, hora, speaker, or strobe that provides audible, tactile, or visible outputs, or any combination thereof.

passive fire protection - Fire protection features that are incorporated into the building construction or building materials that do not rely on active fire protection methods to liinit fire ignition, fire growth or material failure. Fire separations and divisions, sprayed-on fire proofing and enclosing structural members with noncombustible materials are examples of passive fire protection.

smoke and heat venting - A process used to move products of combustion to the outdoor air.

xvi NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Preface

Genesis of This Investigation

Immediately following the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center (WTC) on September 1 1, 2001 , the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Society of Civil Engineers began

planning a building perfomiance study of the disaster. The week of October 7, as soon as the rescue and

search efforts ceased, the Building Performance Study Team went to the site and began its assessment. This was to be a brief effort, as the study team consisted of experts who largely volunteered their time

away from their other professional commitments. The Building Perfonnance Study Team issued its report in May 2002, fulfilling its goal "to determine probable failure mechanisms and to identify areas of

future investigation that could lead to practical measures for improving the damage resistance of buildings

against such unforeseen events."

On August 21, 2002, with funding from the U.S. Congress through FEMA, the National Institute of

Standards and Technology (NIST) announced its building and fire safety investigation of the WTC

disaster. On October I, 2002, the National Construction Safety Team Act (Public Law 107-231), was

signed into law. The NIST WTC Investigation was conducted under the authority of the National

Construction Safety Team Act.

The goals of the investigation of the WTC disaster were:

• To investigate the building construction, the materials used, and the technical conditions that contributed to the outcome of the WTC disaster.

• To serve as the basis for: - Improvements in the way buildings are designed, constructed, maintained, and used; - Improved tools and guidance for industry and safety officials; - Recommended revisions to current codes, standards, and practices; and - Improved public safety.

The specific objectives were:

1 . Determine why and how WTC 1 and WTC 2 collapsed following the initial impacts of the

aircraft and why and how WTC 7 collapsed;

2. Detennine why the injuries and fatalities were so high or low depending on location,

including all technical aspects of fire protection, occupant behavior, evacuation, and

emergency response;

3. Determine what procedures and practices were used in the design, construction, operation,

and maintenance of WTC 1,2, and 7; and

4. Identify, as specifically as possible, areas in current building and fire codes, standards, and

practices that warrant revision.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation XVII
Preface

NIST is a nonregulatory agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Technology Administration. The

purpose of NIST investigations is to improve the safety and structural integrity of buildings in the United

States, and the focus is on fact finding. NIST investigative teams are authorized to assess building

perfonnance and emergency response and evacuation procedures in the wake of any building failure that has resuhed in substantial loss of life or that posed significant potential of substantial loss of life. NIST

does not have the statutory authority to make findings of fault nor negligence by individuals or

organizations. Further, no part of any report resulting from a NIST investigation into a building failure or from an investigation under the National Construction Safety Team Act may be used in any suit or action

for damages arising out of any matter mentioned in such report (15 USC 281a, as amended by Public

Law 107-231).

Organization of the Investigation

The National Construction Safety Team for this Investigation, appointed by the then NIST Director, Dr. Arden L. Bement, Jr., was led by Dr. S. Shyam Sunder. Dr. William L. Grosshandler served as Associate Lead Investigator, Mr. Stephen A. Cauffman served as Program Manager for Administration,

and Mr. Harold E. Nelson served on the team as a private sector expert. The Investigation included eight

interdependent projects whose leaders comprised the remainder of the team. A detailed description of

each of these eight projects is available at http://wtc.nist.gov. The purpose of each project is summarized

in Table P-1, and the key interdependencies among the projects are illustrated in Fig. P-1.

Table P-1. Federal building and fire safety investigation of the WTC disaster.

Technical Area and Project Leader Project Purpose

Analysis of Building and Fire Codes and

Practices; Project Leaders: Dr. H. S. Lew

and Mr. Richard W. Bukowski

Document and analyze the code provisions, procedures, and

practices used in the design, construction, operation, and

maintenance of the structural, passive fire protection, and

emergency access and evacuation systems of WTC 1, 2, and 7. Baseline Structural Performance and

Aircraft Impact Damage Analysis; Project Leader: Dr. Fahim H. Sadek

Analyze the baseline perfonnance of WTC 1 and WTC 2 under

design, service, and abnormal loads, and aircraft impact damage on

the structural, fire protection, and egress systems.

Mechanical and Metallurgical Analysis of

Structural Steel; Project Leader: Dr. Frank

W. Gayle

Determine and analyze the mechanical and metallurgical properties

and quality of steel, weldments, and connections from steel recovered from WTC 1, 2, and 7. Investigation of Active Fire Protection Systems; Project Leader: Dr. David

D. Evans; Dr. William Grosshandler

Investigate the performance of the active fire protection systems in WTC 1, 2, and 7 and their role in fire control, emergency response, and fate of occupants and responders.

Reconstruction of Thermal and Tenability

Environment; Project Leader: Dr. Richard

G. Gann

Reconstruct the time-evolving temperature, thermal environment,

and smoke movement in WTC I, 2, and 7 for use in evaluating the

structural performance of the buildings and behavior and fate of

occupants and responders.

Structural Fire Response and Collapse

Analysis; Project Leaders: Dr. John

L. Gross and Dr. Therese P. McAllister

Analyze the response of the WTC towers to fires with and without

aircraft damage, the response of WTC 7 in fires, the performance

of composite steel-trussed floor systems, and determine the most

probable structural collapse sequence for WTC I, 2, and 7. Occupant Behavior, Egress, and Emergency

Communications; Project Leader: Mr. Jason

D. Averill

Analyze the behavior and fate of occupants and responders, both

those who survived and those who did not, and the performance of

the evacuation system.

Emergency Response Technologies and

Guidelines; Project Leader: Mr. J. Randall Lawson

Document the activities of the emergency responders from the time

of the terrorist attacks on WTC 1 and WTC 2 until the collapse of

WTC 7, including practices followed and technologies used.

xviii NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Preface

Figure P-1. The eight projects in the federal building and fire safety

investigation of the WTC disaster.

National Construction Safety Team Advisory Committee

The NISI Director also established an advisory committee as mandated under the National Construction

Safety Team Act. The initial members of the committee were appointed following a public solicitation. These were:

• Paul Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President (retired) FM Global, National Construction Safety

Team Advisory Committee Chair

• John Barsom. President. Barsom Consulting, Ltd.

• John Bryan, Professor Emeritus, University of Maryland

• David Collins, President, The Preview Group, Inc.

• Glenn Corbett, Professor, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

• Philip DiNenno, President, Hughes Associates, Inc.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation XIX
Preface

• Robert Hanson, Professor Emeritus, University of Michigan

• Charles Thornton, Co-Chairman and Managing Principal, The Thomton-Tomasetti Group,

Inc.

• Kathleen Tiemey, Director, Natural Hazards Research and Applications Information Center,

University of Colorado at Boulder

• Fonnan Williams, Director, Center for Energy Research, University of California at San

Diego

This National Construction Safety Team Advisory Committee provided technical advice during the Investigation and commentai7 on drafts of the Investigation reports prior to their public release. NIST

has benefited from the work of many people in the preparation of these reports, including the National

Construction Safety Team Advisory Committee. The content of the reports and recommendations,

however, are solely the responsibility of NIST.

Public Outreach

During the course of this Investigation, NIST held public briefings and meetings (listed in Table P-2) to

solicit input from the public, present preliminary findings, and obtain comments on the direction and

progress of the Investigation from the public and the Advisory Committee.

NIST maintained a publicly accessible Web site during this Investigation at http://wtc.nist.gov. The site contained extensive information on the background and progress of the Investigation.

NIST's WTC Public-Private Response Plan

The collapse of the WTC buildings has led to broad reexamination of how tall buildings are designed,

constructed, maintained, and used, especially with regard to major events such as fires, natural disasters,

and tenorist attacks. Reflecting the enhanced interest in effecting necessary change, NIST, with support

from Congress and the Administration, has put in place a program, the goal of which is to develop and

implement the standards, technology, and practices needed for cost-effective improvements to the safety

and security of buildings and building occupants, including evacuation, emergency response procedures,

and threat mitigation.

The strategy to meet this goal is a three-part NIST-led public-private response program that includes:-

• A federal building and fire safety investigation to study the most probable factors that contributed to post-aircraft impact collapse of the WTC towers and the 47-story WTC 7

building, and the associated evacuation and emergency response experience.

• A research and development (R&D) program to (a) facilitate the implementation of

recommendations resulting from the WTC Investigation, and (b) provide the technical basis

for cost-effective improvements to national building and fire codes, standards, and practices

that enhance the safety of buildings, their occupants, and emergency responders.

XX NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Preface

Table P-2. Public meetings and briefings of the WTC Investigation.

Date Location Principal Ajjenda

June 24, 2002 New York City, NY Public meeting: Public comments on the Drafi Plan for the pending WTC Investigation.

August 2 1

, 2002 Gaithersburg, MD Media briefing announcing the formal start of the Investigation.

December 9, 2002 Washington, DC Media briefing on release of the Public Update and NIST request

for photographs and videos. April 8, 2003 New York City, NY Joint public forum with Columbia University on first-person interviews. April 29-30, 2003 Gaithersburg, MD NCST Advisory Committee meeting on plan for and progress on WTC Investigation with a public comment session. May 7, 2003 New York City, NY Media briefing on release of May 2003 Progress Report.

August 26-27, 2003 Gaithersburg, MD NCST Advisory Committee meeting on status of the WTC

investigation with a public comment session. September 17, 2003 New York City, NY Media and public briefing on initiation of first-person data

collection projects.

December 2-3, 2003 Gaithersburg, MD NCST Advisory Committee meeting on status and initial results and release of the Public Update with a public comment session. February 12, 2004 New York City, NY Public meeting on progress and preliminary findings with public

comments on issues to be considered in formulating final recommendations.

June 18. 2004 New York City, NY Media/public briefing on release ofJune 2004 Progress Report. June 22-23, 2004 Gaithersburg, MD NCST Advisory Committee meeting on the status of and

preliminary findings from the WTC Investigation with a public

comment session. Aueust 24, 2004 Northbrook, IL Public viewing of standard fire resistance test of WTC floor system at Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. October 19-20, 2004 Gaithersburg, MD NCST Advisory Committee meeting on status and near complete

set of preliminary findings with a public comment session. November 22, 2004 Gaithersburg, MD NCST Advisory Committee discussion on draft annual report to Congress, a public comment session, and a closed session to discuss pre-draft recommendations for WTC Investigation.

April 5, 2005 New York City, NY Media and public briefing on release of the probable collapse sequence for the WTC towers and draft reports for the projects on

codes and practices, evacuation, and emergency response. June 23, 2005 New York City, NY Media and public briefing on release of all draft reports for the WTC towers and draft recommendations for public comment.

September 12-13,

2005

Gaithersburg, MD NCST Advisory Committee meeting on disposition of public

comments and update to draft reports for the WTC towers. September 13-15,

2005

Gaithersburg, MD WTC Technical Conference for stakeholders and technical community for dissemination of findings and recommendations

and opportunity for public to make technical comments.

• A dissemination and technical assistance program (DTAP) to (a) engage leaders of the construction and building community in ensuring timely adoption and widespread use of

proposed changes to practices, standards, and codes resulting from the WTC Investigation

and the R&D program, and (b) provide practical guidance and tools to better prepare facility owners, contractors, architects, engineers, emergency responders, and regulatory authorities

to respond to future disasters. The desired outcomes are to make buildings, occupants, and first responders safer in future disaster events.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation xxi
Preface

National Construction Safety Team Reports on the WTC Investigation

A final report on the collapse of the WTC towers is being issued as NIST NCSTAR 1. A companion

report on the collapse of WTC 7 is being issued as NIST NCSTAR lA. The present report is one of a set that provides more detailed documentation of the Investigation findings and the means by which these

technical results were achieved. As such, it is part of the archival record of this Investigation. The titles of the full set of Investigation publications are:

NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology). 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Final Report on the Collapse ofthe World Trade

Center Towers. NIST NCSTAR 1. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology). 2006. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Final Report on the Collapse of World Trade Center 7. NIST NCSTAR lA. Gaithersburg, MD.

Lew, H. S., R. W. Bukowski, and N. J. Carino. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation of

the World Trade Center Disaster: Design, Consti'uction, and Maintenance ofStructural and Life Safety'

Systems. NIST NCSTAR 1-1. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

Fanella, D. A., A. T. Derecho, and S. K. Ghosh. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Design and Construction ofStructural Systems.

NIST NCSTAR 1-1 A. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

Ghosh, S. K., and X. Liang. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safet\> Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Comparison ofBuilding Code Structural Requirements. NIST

NCSTAR 1-lB. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Fanella, D. A., A. T. Derecho, and S. K. Ghosh. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Maintenance and Modifications to Structural

Systems. NIST NCSTAR 1-lC. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg,

MD, September.

Grill, R. A., and D. A. Johnson. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Fire Protection and Life Safety Provisions Applied to the Design and

Construction of World Trade Center I, 2, and 7 and Post-Construction Provisions Applied after Occupancy. NIST NCSTAR 1-lD. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg,

MD, September.

Razza, J. C, and R. A. Grill. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety' Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Comparison ofCodes, Standards, and Practices in Use at the Time ofthe Design and Construction of World Trade Center 1, 2, and 7. NIST NCSTAR 1-lE. National

Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Grill, R. A., D. A. Johnson, and D. A. Fanella. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation of the World Trade Center Disaster: Comparison ofthe 1968 and Current (2003) New

xxii NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Preface

York City Building Code Provisions. NIST NCSTAR 1-lF. National Institute of Standards and

Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Grill, R. A., and D. A. Johnson. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Amendments to the Fire Protection and Life Safet}> Provisions ofthe New

York City Building Code by Local Laws Adopted While World Trade Center 7, 2, and 7 Were in Use. NIST NCSTAR 1-1 G. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

Grill, R. A., and D. A. Johnson. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Post-Construction Modifications to Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems

of World Trade Center I and 2. NIST NCSTAR 1-lH. National Institute of Standards and

Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Grill, R. A., D. A. Johnson, and D. A. Fanella. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation

ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Post-Construction Modifications to Fire Protection, Life

Safety, and Structural Systems of World Trade Center 7. NIST NCSTAR l-ll. National Institute of

Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Grill, R. A., and D. A. Johnson. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Design, Installation, and Operation ofFuel System for Emergency Power in World Trade Center 7. NIST NCSTAR 1-lJ. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Sadek, F. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation of the World Trade Center Disaster:

Baseline Structural Performance and Aircraft Impact Damage Analysis of the World Trade Center

Towers. NIST NCSTAR 1-2. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

Faschan, W. J., and R. B. Garlock. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Reference Structural Models and Baseline Performance Analysis of

the World Trade Center Towers. NIST NCSTAR 1-2A. National Institute of Standards and

Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Kirkpatrick, S. W., R. T. Bocchieri, F. Sadek, R. A. MacNeill, S. Holmes, B. D. Peterson, R. W. Cilke, C. Navarro. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation of the World Trade

Center Disaster: Analysis ofAircraft Impacts into the World Trade Center Towers, NIST

NCSTAR 1-2B. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Gayle, F. W., R. J. Fields, W. E. Luecke, S. W. Banovic, T. Foecke, C. N. McCowan, T. A. Siewert, and

J. D. McColskey. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center

Disaster: Mechanical and Metallurgical Analysis ofStructural Steel. NIST NCSTAR 1-3. National

Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Luecke, W. E., T. A. Siewert, and F. W. Gayle. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety^

Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Contemporaneous Structural Steel

Specifications. NIST Special Pubhcation 1-3A. Nationallnstitute of Standards and Technology.

Gaithersburg, MD, September.

NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation xxiii
Preface

Banovic, S. W. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center

Disaster: Steel Inventoiy and Identification. NIST NCSTAR 1-3B. National Institute of Standards

and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Banovic, S. W., and T. Foecke. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Damage and Failure Modes ofStructural Steel Components. NIST

NCSTAR 1-3C. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Luecke, W. E., J. D. McColskey, C. N. McCowan, S. W. Banovic, R. J. Fields, T. Foecke,

T. A. Siewert, and F. W. Gayle. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety' Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Mechanical Properties ofStructural Steels. NIST NCSTAR 1-3D.

National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Banovic, S. W., C. N. McCowan, and W. E. Luecke. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Physical Properties ofStructural Steels. NIST

NCSTAR 1-3E. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Evans, D. D., R. D. Peacock, E. D. Kuligowski, W. S. Dols, and W. L. Grosshandler. 2005. Federal

Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Active Fire Protection

Systems. NIST NCSTAR 1-4. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

Kuligowski, E. D., D. D. Evans, and R. D. Peacock. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation of the World Trade Center Disaster: Post-Construction Fires Prior to September 11,

2001. NIST NCSTAR 1-4A. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

Hopkins, M., J. Schoenrock, and E. Budnick. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation

ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Fire Suppression Systems. NIST NCSTAR 1-4B. National

Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Keough, R. J., and R. A. Grill. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety' Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Fire Alarm Systems. NIST NCSTAR 1-4C. National Institute of Standards

and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Ferreira, M. J., and S. M. Strege. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safet}' Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Smoke Management Systems. NIST NCSTAR 1-4D. National

Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Gann, R. G., A. Hamins, K. B. McGrattan, G. W. Mulholland, H. E. Nelson, T. J. Ohlemiller,

W. M. Pitts, and K. R. Prasad. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade

Center Disaster: Reconstruction of the Fires in the World Trade Center Towers. NIST NCSTAR 1-5. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Pitts, W. M., K. M. Butler, and V. Junker. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation of

the World Trade Center Disaster: Visual Evidence, Damage Estimates, and Timeline Analysis.

NIST NCSTAR 1-5 A. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

XXIV NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Preface

Hamins, A., A. Maranghides, K. B. McGrattan, E. Johnsson, T. J. Ohlcmillcr, M. Donnelly,

J. Yang, G. MulhoUand, K. R. Prasad, S. Kukuck, R. Anleitner and T. McAllister. 2005. Federal

Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Experiments and

Modeling ofSti-uctural Steel Elements Exposed to Fire. NIST NCSTAR 1-5B. National Institute of

Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Ohlemiller, T. J., G. W. Mulholland, A. Maranghides, J. J. Filliben, and R. G. Gann. 2005. Federal

Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Fire Tests ofSingle

Office Workstations. NIST NCSTAR 1-5C. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Gann, R. G., M. A. Riley, J. M. Repp, A. S. Whittaker, A. M. Reinhom, and P. A. Hough. 2005.

Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Reaction of

Ceiling Tile Systems to Shocks. NIST NCSTAR 1-5D. National Institute of Standards and

Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Hamins, A., A. Maranghides, K. B. McGrattan, T. J. Ohlemiller, and R. Anleitner. 2005. Federal

Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Experiments and

Modeling ofMultiple Workstations Burning in a Compartment. NIST NCSTAR 1-5E. National

Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

McGrattan, K. B., C. Bouldin, and G. Forney. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety

Investigation of the World Trade Center Disaster: Computer Simulation ofthe Fires in the World

Trade Center Towers. NIST NCSTAR 1-5F. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Prasad. K. R., and H. R. Baum. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Fire Structure Interface and Thermal Response ofthe World Trade Center

Towers. NIST NCSTAR 1-5G. Nationallnstitute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg,

MD, September.

Gross, J. L., and T. McAllister. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety- Investigation ofthe World Trade

Center Disaster: Structural Fire Response and Probable Collapse Sequence ofthe World Trade Center

Towers. NIST NCSTAR 1-6. Nationallnstitute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD,

September.

Carino, N. J., M. A. Stames, J. L. Gross, J. C. Yang, S. Kukuck, K. R. Prasad, and R. W. Bukowski.

2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation of the World Trade Center Disaster: Passive

Fire Protection. NIST NCSTAR 1-6A. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Gross. J., F. Hervey, M. Izydorek, J. Mammoser, and J. Treadway. 2005. Federal Building and

Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Fire Resistance Tests ofFloor Ti-vss Systems. NIST NCSTAR 1-6B. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg,

MD, September.

Zarghamee, M. S., S. Bolourchi, D. W. Eggers, O. O. Erbay, F. W. Kan, Y. Kitane, A. A. Liepins,

M. Mudlock, W. I. Naguib, R. P. Ojdrovic, A. T. Sarawit, P. R Barrett. J. L. Gross, and

NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation XXV
Preface

T. P. McAllister. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safet}> Investigation ofthe World Trade Center

Disaster: Component, Connection, and Subsystem Structural Analysis. NIST NCSTAR 1-6C.

National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Zarghamee, M. S., Y. Kitane, O. O. Erbay, T. P. McAllister, and J. L. Gross. 2005. Federal

Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster: Global Structural

Analysis ofthe Response ofthe World Trade Center Towers to Impact Damage and Fire. NIST

NCSTAR 1-6D. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

McAllister, T., R. W. Bukowski, R. G. Gann, J. L. Gross, K. B. McGrattan, H. E. Nelson, L. Phan,

W. M. Pitts, K. R. Prasad, F. Sadek. 2006. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: Structural Fire Response and Probable Collapse Sequence of World Trade

Center 7. (Provisional). NIST NCSTAR 1-6E. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Gaithersburg, MD. _ . ^

Gilsanz, R., V. Arbitrio, C. Anders, D. Chlebus, K. Ezzeldin, W. Guo, P. Moloney, A. Montalva,

J. Oh, K. Rubenacker. 2006. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade

Center Disaster: Structural Analysis ofthe Response of World Trade Center 7 to Debris Damage

and Fire. (Provisional). NIST NCSTAR 1-6F. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Gaithersburg, MD.

Kim, W. 2006. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center

Disaster: Analysis ofSeptember 1 1, 2001. Seismogram Data. (Provisional). NIST NCSTAR I-6G.

National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD.

Nelson, K. 2006. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center

Disaster: The Con Ed Substation in World Trade Center 7. (Provisional). NIST NCSTAR 1-6H.

National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD.

Averill, J. D., D. S. Mileti, R. D. Peacock, E. D. Kuligowski, N. Groner, G. Proulx, P. A. Reneke, and

H. E. Nelson. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World Trade Center Disaster:

Occupant Behavior, Egress, and Emergency Communication. NIST NCSTAR 1-7. National Institute of

Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Fahy, R., and G. Proulx. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety' Investigation of the World Trade

Center Disaster: Analysis ofPublished Accounts ofthe World Trade Center Evacuation. NIST

NCSTAR 1-7A. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Zmud, J. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safet\' Investigation ofthe World Trade Center

Disaster: Technical Documentation for Survey Administration. NIST NCSTAR 1-7B. National

Institute of Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

Lawson, J. R., and R. L. Vettori. 2005. Federal Building and Fire Safety Investigation ofthe World

Trade Center Disaster: The Emergency Response Operations. NIST NCSTAR 1 -8. National Institute of

Standards and Technology. Gaithersburg, MD, September.

XXVi NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Section I PANYNJ Guidelines for Inspection,

Repair, and IVIodifications to Fire

Protection Systems
This page intentionally left blank.
Executive Summary

As part of the analysis of building and fire codes and standards of the National Institute of Standards and

Technology World Trade Center (WTC) Investigation, this report supports the effort to document the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) guidelines for inspection, repair, and modifications to the fire protection systems in the WTC. Over the life of the buildings, in particular WTC 1, 2, and 7, repairs and modifications were made. These changes, depending on the magnitude of the enhancement,

may have affected the overall building perfonnance. The purpose of this report is to document the PANYNJ guidelines for inspection, repair, and modifications to fire protection and egress systems in WTC 1, 2, and 7. These include guidelines governing the inspection and upgrading of fire alarm and fire suppression systems, the reapplication of fireproofing, and the upgrading of elevators, hoistways, and

elevator lobbies.

As part of the document search for this report, manuals, program standards, surveys, and correspondence

of many parties were reviewed and analyzed. The following sections provide a summary of the documents that include guidelines and procedures for maintaining and modifying the fire protection and

egress systems of the WTC.

Memorandums of Understanding

The PANYNJ, not being technically subject to the local building code of New York City, created a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the New York City Department of Buildings (NYCDB) in 1993 to establish procedures and avoid construction conflicts. The MOU ensured that any construction

project performed by the PANYNJ or any tenant within a PANYNJ building in New York City would

conform to the Building Code of the City of New York (BCNYC). The MOU gave the PANYNJ the

right to approve building plans. Any variance to the BCNYC, permitted by the PANYNJ, would be sent

to the NYCDB for review.

In June of 1995, a supplement to the PANYNJ/NYCDB MOU was added. The MOU supplement

permitted PANYNJ tenants to use New York State hcensed engineers/architects to self certify

construction plans and certify that the installation was in accordance to the certified plans, provided the engineers/architects meets the qualifications established by PANYNJ. The person approving the construction plans could not be the same person certifying that the installation was in accordance with the approved plans until September of 1995, when another supplement was added. The September 1995

supplement permitted a single New York State licensed engineer/architect to certify the construction

plans and the installation.

In 1993, a MOU with the PANYNJ and the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) was estabhshed.

The MOU permitted the FDNY to conduct fire safety inspections at the PANYNJ facilities in New York

City. Upon inspection, the findings and recommendations were sent to PANYNJ for review and

corrective action if necessary. In 1995, an amendment to the MOU was adopted requiring written notice

to the FDNY of any additions or modifications to existing fire safety systems. The amendment also required the design and review of the addition or modification to be performed by a New York State

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 3
Executive Summary

licensed engineer or architect. Additionally, the amendment required the design and review of such

design to be performed by separate individuals.

Tenant Construction Review Manuals

The Tenant Construction Review Manuals were created by the Engineering Department, Quality

Assurance Division of PANYNJ. The manuals were created to establish technical criteria to be followed

by the tenants and their architectural and engineering consultants. Manuals were available from 1971 to 1997. The manuals indicated the applicable codes, standards and PANYNJ criteria that would be used to detennine compliance of each modification or addition.

Design Guidelines

Various design guidelines were created by PANYNJ. Design guidelines were created for all the major

construction disciplines. The design guidelines included minimum specifications and standard details for use in the alteration projects throughout the WTC complex. Details pertaining to standpipe systems, fire sprinkler systems, fire alann systems, fireproofing and egress requirements were included.

Operation and Maintenance Manuals -r^

The Engineering Department of PANYNJ established Operation and Maintenance Manuals (34 total) for the various systems throughout the WTC. Each manual contains Maintenance Procedure Cards

describing in detail the inspection and maintenance procedures for the work to be done, including the frequency of each test or maintenance. Manuals #13, #18, and #23 describe the details for the fire sprinkler, standpipe and special hazard systems. Manual #23 and #12 provides the procedures for the inspection and maintenance of the fire detection systems.

Port Authority Facility Condition Survey Program

A facility condition sui-vey program was established to continually monitor the condition of the WTC

buildings. Engineering firms were contracted by PANYNJ to perform detailed inspections of the building

conditions. Various building components, including architectural and structural, were inspected, photos were taken, and reports were generated with recommendations and guidelines for repair or replacement as necessary. There are at least two reports that detail the inspection and testing of fireproofing materials.

Structural Integrity Testing and Inspection Program

The Structural Integrity Testing and Inspection Program was established by the PANYNJ Engineering

Department and Leslie E. Robertson Associates to monitor the structural integrity of WTC 1 and WTC 2. Although the complete details of this program are not summarized in this report, important procedures for the repair of fire proofing material are discussed. It was recommended to repair fire proofing material

with the same brand and type initially used, where practical. Additional procedures were given based on

the size of area being repaired and brand of material identified.

4 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Executive Summary

Tenants Manual

In 1984, the World Trade Center Tenants Manual was developed to provide WTC tenants information

regarding the functions of the Operations Division of WTC. By following building standard

requirements, the Operations Division could be contracted by a tenant to make alterations without having

to hire an outside contractor or go through the review process with the WTC Planning Department.

Other Documents

As part of each tenant modification, specifications were created to establish minimum requirements as required by codes. There were literally hundreds of tenant alterations performed in WTC 1 , 2, and 7. Summaries of the alterations on the affected floors of WTC 1 and WTC 2 and all of the alterations in WTC 7 are contained in a separate report. However, a specification to replace fireproofing material on

the exposed columns and beams within the elevator shaft of WTC 1 identified additional procedures used

at the WTC. This is discussed in Chapter 9 of this report. This specification listed the performance

criteria, testing, and inspection requirements for fire proofing material.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 5
Executive Summary

\

This page intentionally left blank.

6 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 1 Introduction

Over the course of years, the World Trade Center (WTC) complex and surrounding buildings were altered

for numerous reasons, including tenant alterations, inspections, building repairs, enhancement, and

maintenance. As changes occurred, the need to maintain safety standards arose. The Port Authority of

New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) adopted policies that set forth procedures to maintain and enhance

safety standards at PANYNJ facilities. The puipose of this report is to document the PANYNJ guidelines

for inspection, repair, and modifications to fire protection and egress systems in WTC 1, 2, and 7. These

include guidelines governed the inspection and upgrading of fire alarm and fire suppression systems, the reapplication of fireproofing, and the upgrading of elevators, hoistways, and elevator lobbies.

The guidelines and policies are found in many PANYNJ documents and involved many parties. Manuals,

program standards, surveys, and correspondence have been reviewed and analyzed in an effort to summarize the modification guidelines. Documents containing important information used in the process of performing building modifications are summarized in the following sections.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 7
Chapter 1

This page intentionally left blank.

8 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 2

Memorandums of Understanding

The facilities of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port Authority), an

interstate compact under the U.S. Constitution, are not technically subject to the requirements of the local building codes, although PANYNJ intended to voluntarily follow the New York City codes where

applicable. In order to minimize conflicts between PANYNJ and the New York City requirements for the World Trade Center (WTC), Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were executed. One MOU was

executed between PANYNJ and the New York City Department of Buildings (NYCDB) in 1993

(PANYNJ 1993a). Another MOU was executed between PANYNJ and the New York City Fire

Department (FDNY) also in 1993 (PANYNJ 1993b).

In November 1993, an agreement between PANYNJ and NYCDB was executed to establish procedures

and ensure that any construction project of the PANYNJ or any of its tenants at buildings owned or operated by PANYNJ located in New York City conform to the Building Code of the City of New York

(BCNYC).

Under the agreement to ensure confonnance with the standards set forth in the Code at the time of design,

the parties agreed that the design and review of such systems be perfomied by New York State licensed

architects and engineers. Also, the New York State licensed architect and/or engineer approving the plans

for any addition or modification for the Port Authority may not have assisted in the preparation of such

plans. The Port Authority agreed to have each tenant obtain a certification from a New York State licensed architect or engineer that such system was constructed in accordance with the approved plans

and specifications. For systems effectuated by the Port Authority, the Chief Engineer or his successor in duties was to certify that the system was constructed in accordance with the approved plans and

specifications. The Port Authority was to maintain a file for each project, which would contain the most

current documents, including certifications, necessary to justify code confonnance. NYCDB was

permitted, to at any time, request the Port Authority to provide NYCDB with a copy of any fire safety

file. Any variance with the codes approved by the Chief Engineer of PANYNJ was to be sent to NYCDB. If NYCDB disagreed with the variance, NYCDB was to advise PANYNJ. Any matters of code

conformance not resolved were subject to further review of PANYNJ Board of Commissioners. The

MOU also indicates that PANYNJ would continue to conduct or cause to be conducted all building

inspections, during both construction and post-construction periods. PANYNJ is to continue to perform

structural integrity inspections on a cyclical basis for all of its structures located in New York City.

In June 1995, a supplement was added to the PANYNJ/NYCDB MOU. NYCDB had instittited an

optional plan review system since the execution of the original MOU. The supplement requires WTC

tenants to utilize New York State licensed architects or engineers meeting qualifications established by

PANYNJ to certify and review projects, in lieu of any review by the Port Authority. It also states that the person who reviews and certifies the construction plans for code confonnance cannot be the same person

that certifies that construction has been performed in accordance with the approved plans.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 9
Chapter 2

In September 1995, a change to the supplement of the PANYNJ/NYCDB MOU was executed in connection with the PANYNJ's Tenant Self-Certification Program at the WTC. The change allows a

single New York State licensed architect or engineer to certify both the construction plans and that construction is in confonnance with the approved plans with the following exception if the alteration changes the character of the occupancy group under paragraph 27-237 of the BCNYC that would have

been applicable had such space been located in a privately owned building.

In December 1993, procedures were set forth to implement the existing policy established in April 1993

between PANYNJ and FDNY. The Port Authority agreed to permit FDNY, acting through its Bureau of

Fire Prevention (BFP), to conduct fire safety inspections at any PANYNJ facility in New York City.

Upon inspection, BFP was to issue a report of fire safety findings and recommendations for corrective

action with respect to any deficiencies to the Port Authority's General Manager of Risk Management

operations. The Port Authority would undertake the implementation of such findings and corrective

actions and notify BFP of the actions taken. BFP also had the right to conduct follow-up inspections with

respect to any recommendations to PANYNJ.

In 1995, an Amendment to the PANYNJ/FDNY MOU was executed with respect to additions and/or

modifications to existing fire safety systems. The Port Authority was to notify BFP in writing prior to the introduction of any additions or modifications to existing fire safety systems in a PANYNJ facility in the City of New York. BFP agreed to permit PANYNJ to review additions and/or modifications to existing

fire safety systems. To ensure conformance with the standards set forth in local codes and regulations, the design and review of such systems were required to be perfonned by New York State licensed

architects and engineers. Also, the New York State licensed, architect and/or engineer approving the plans for any addition or modification was not to have assisted in the actual preparation of such plans.

This provision was later modified (September 1995) to peraiit the same New York State licensed architect or engineer to prepare and certify that plans met current code requirements.

The Port Authority agreed to require each tenant to obtain a certification from a New York State licensed

architect or engineer that modifications were constructed in accordance with the approved plans and

specifications. For systems effectuated by PANYNJ, the Port Authority Office of Risk Management

would certify that the system was constmcted in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.

PANYNJ would maintain a file for each new or modified system, which would contain the most current documents, including certifications, necessary to justify code confonnance. BFP could at any time

request PANYNJ to provide BFP with a copy of any fire safety file. BFP could also audit any new or modified fire safety system to ensure confonnance with the standards set forth in local codes and

regulations. However, when circumstances or conditions were unusual, the Port Authority could petition the BFP for a variance.

Whenever work was done in the WTC buildings, a project number was assigned by the Port Authority

under which all contracts, drawings, and conespondence was filed. These numbers are typically of the fonnat W(yy)-1234 (where yy is the year initiated and 1234 is a four-digit number). This report includes

these numbers as references to individual projects, and files retained by the Port Authority are identified by these numbers.

10 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 3

Tenant Construction Review Manuals

The Tenant Construction Review Manual (the Manual) was prepared by the Engineering Department,

Quality Assurance Division of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port

Authority). Manuals were available between 1971 and March 1997. The Manual presents technical

criteria to be followed by tenants and their architectural and engineering consultants at all Port Authority

facilities, including the World Trade Center (WTC) complex. The following guidelines for inspection,

repair, and modifications to fire protection and egress systems are from the March 1997 (latest) edition of

the Manual.

3.1 GENERAL

Each chapter or section of the Manual refers to compliance with the applicable codes, standards, and Port Authority design criteria listed in the particular section. The codes and regulations referenced for use in New York City include the following:

1 . New York City Building Code and its Reference Standards

2. New York City Fire Prevention Code and Directives

3. New York City Local Laws

4. Rules of the Board of Standards and Appeals

5. New York State Labor Law

6. New York State Multiple Dwelling Law (Hotels)

7. New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code

8. Directives and Memoranda of the Department of Buildings

9. Rules of the City of New York, Title 1, Department of Buildings

10. New York City Electrical Code

1 1. National Electrical Code

Additionally, tenant modifications at all Port Authority facilities were required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable Flood Controls.

In addition to the Reference Standards referenced in the Building Code of the City of New York

(BCNYC), the following standards are specifically referenced:

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 11
Chapter 3

1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 75, Computer Rooms

2. NFPA 20, Centrifugal Fire Pumps

3. NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code

4. NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code

5. NFPA Standards in areas not covered by codes

In addition to the Port Authority design criteria. Section 14 of the Manual outlines the requirements for acceptance (approval) of materials, assemblies, fonns, methods of construction, and the intended use of

equipment, as well as the requirements for inspection of materials, assemblies, and construction. The

requirements for the approval/acceptance of materials and equipment and the requirements for controlled

inspections are abstracted from the BCNYC.

3.2 FIRE SUPPRESSION

The guidelines for the installation and alteration of sprinkler and fire suppression systems are included in:

• Section 10 - Mechanical

• Section 1 1 - Plumbing

• Section 12 - Fire Protection

Section 10 - Mechanical covers fire suppression systems and controls. For the WTC, the Port Authority

Design Criteria refers to the published WTC guidelines for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning and

Fire Safety systems (see Design Guidelines below).

Section 1 1 - Plumbing covers fire sprinklers and standpipes. At the WTC, the Port Authority Design

Criteria for plumbing and fire protection work was required to confonn to the Tenant Plumbing/Fire

Protection Design Guidelines (see Design Guidelines below). Details of the representative fire protection

items reviewed by the PANYNJ include:

• Fire standpipe systems: floor plans, riser diagrams and available water pressure.

• Sprinkler/fire protection systems: water supplies, mains, risers, valves, Siamese connections,

etc., principal construction features of the building, electrical or automatic devices, and

hydrauhc calculations as required by NFPA 13.

• Other fire suppression systems: plans for chemical or gaseous fire suppression piping

systems were required to contain: the type of extinguishing agent and number and size of

agent containers, size, length and type of all piping used, number and location of all fusible

links or detectors and the temperature setting.

Section 12 - Fire Protection covers the design of various fire detection, alarm and suppression systems.

Details of representative fire protection items reviewed by the PANYNJ include:

12 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Tenant Construction Review Manuals

• Sprinkler and other systems using dry chemicals, foams, gaseous, and other extinguishing

agents shall be shown on drawings, signed and sealed by the Architect or Engineer of record, or if prepared by a specialized consultant, signed and sealed by such licensed consultant. Said consultants must be licensed to practice in the state in which the work will be pcrfonncd.

• Sprinkler plans shall indicate or list the appropriate information and data specified in NFPA 13 regarding available water sources, supply pressure, number and type of sprinklers,

fire department connections, hazard classification, alann devices, and supervisory

connections. Hydraulic computations shall be submitted when used.

3.3 FIRE ALARM

Section 12 - Fire Protection covers the design of various fire detection, alarm and suppression systems.

For the WTC complex, the Port Authority Design Criteria includes specific requirements for:

• Wiring: including general, initiating device circuits (smoke and heat detectors, system

interfaces and manual pull stations), notification appliance circuits, control circuits and power

supply.

• System: All components connected to the WTC Base Building Fire Alarm System were

required to be fully compatible with the Base System. Underwriters Laboratories,

Inc./Materials and Equipment Acceptance listings, cross listings and manufacturers'

approvals were required. Additional requirements include: field circuits, relay control

circuits and conventional inputs (waterflow, tamper, alarm and trouble from tenant panels).

Details of the representative fire protection items reviewed by the PANYNJ include a complete fire alaiTn

riser diagram showing locations of all manual pull stations, visible and audible alerting devices, control panels and wiring where required to be provided.

3.4 FIREPROOFING

No specific design criteria is specified in Section 5 - Architectural, however, the Details of Architectural

Review include fire protection of building components and finishes (including documentation verifying

that all materials and equipment used are of an approved type).

Section 14 - Materials, Operations and Equipment Approval and Inspection includes the requirements for acceptance (approval) of materials, assemblies, etc. and the requirement for controlled inspections of

materials, assemblies and construction.

Spray-on fireproofing, in accordance with BCNYC Sec. 27-345(h), is specifically listed as an item subject

to controlled inspection. Such inspection is required to be made and witnessed by or under the direct supervision of a registered architect or professional engineer.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 13
Chapter 3

3.5 EGRESS

Section 5 - Architectural covers the scope of the architectural review consisting of compliance with the applicable codes, standards and PANYNJ design criteria. Other than the referenced codes and

regulations, no specific means of egress design criteria is stated.

The Details of Architectural Review in Section 5 include egress, establishing occupant load and existing

capacity, including door and hardware requirements.

In addition, Section 1 0 - Mechanical includes requirements for smoke detectors and fire/smoke dampers

at ducts entering "safe areas," exit passageways and lobbies.

14 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 4

Design Guidelines

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port Authority) prepared several Design

Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details for use in construction and alterations at the World Trade

Center (WTC) complex. The following guidelines were reviewed for criteria pertaining to the maintenance and modifications of fire protection and egress systems:

• Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details -

February 27, 1998.

• Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details Program for heating, ventilating, and

air conditioning (HVAC), Fire Protection and Plumbing - Revised May 11, 1998.

• Electrical Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details for Electrical,

Communications and Fire Alarai - November 25, 1997.

• Mandated Fire Alarm Guidelines for the WTC Base Building Fire Alann System Design,

Construction, Maintenance and Technical Support Services - March 1999.

The following sections outline the inspection, repair, and modification criteria established for the fire protection and egress systems.

The Design Guidelines were intended to provide design requirements and criteria for tenant alterations at WTC. The design specifications were intended to provide the tenant's consuhant engineer with WTC

requirements for each of the respective trades. The substance of the specifications was required to be

included in the construction documents.

The scope of the architectural and engineering reviews was to ensure compliance with the applicable

codes, standards and WTC Design Criteria.

Although the scope of this report does not address compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act

(ADA), several references are made to ADA regarding egress requirements, such as door hardware and

access/corridor dimensions and visual warning devises (strobes) connected to the fire alarm system.

The Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details Program for HVAC, Fire Protection and

Plumbing outline the criteria for wet-pipe sprinkler systems, preaction systems, fire standpipe systems,

clean agent extinguishing systems, halon fire extinguishing systems and portable fire extinguishers as follows:

4.1 GENERAL

4.2 FIRE SUPPRESSION

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 15
Chapter 4

Wet-Pipe Sprinkler Systems

All tenant spaces were required to be sprinklered. At the time the Design Guidelines were published,

most tenant floors in the WTC were provided with wet-pipe sprinkler systems. New tenants noraially

required a new sprinkler system. For renovations of existing spaces, modifications to the existing system

would normally need to comply with any new partition configuration.

Sprinkler work was required to be designed to comply with the requirements of the Building Code of the City of New York (BCNYC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 13 and the PANYNJ design

guides. In areas requiring specialized sprinkler systems, additional applicable standards as referenced in NFPA 13 were required to be used for design, including but not limited to the following NFPA 15, 16,

231,and231C.

Sprinkler systems were required to be hydraulically designed. A pipe schedule design was only permitted

for minor renovations that did not change the number of heads, and where only a few existing sprinkler

heads required relocation.

Preaction Systems

Only a single zone detecting system was required to be used. Actuation of the fire detection system was

required to open the preaction valve permitting water to flow into the sprinkler system piping. Sprinkler

pipe sizing was required to be hydraulically calculated.

Preaction systems may have been required when wet-pipe sprinkler systems were not provided in computer rooms to protect the areas above the raised floor. As an alternative, a total flooding, clean agent

fire extinguishing system was permitted. Areas under raised floors, where wiring was installed in raceways and combustibles are limited, only required smoke detector protection. If the amount of

combustibles was extensive, and/or the cabling was not in raceways, these areas were required to be

protected by a carbon dioxide system or an approved total flooding, clean agent system.

Fire Standpipe Systems

In WTC 1 and WTC 2, three fire standpipe risers supplied water to the hose stations on Floors I through

1 10. Risers FS-Fl, FS-F2 and FS-F3 were located in Stairway B (Stairway 3), C (Stairway 2), and A

(Staii-way 1), respectively. Riser FS-Fl supplied water to all hose racks in Stairway B and also to all auxihary hose cabinets in the corridors and tenant areas.

In WTC 1 and WTC 2, tenant auxiliary standpipe systems were only permitted to be connected to the existing capped outlets provided at fire standpipe riser FS-Fl located in Stairway B.

Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

New installations of gas-fired extinguishing systems were permitted in the WTC where the systems were

approved by New York City.

Inspection, testing and maintenance of automatic gas systems was required to be performed by competent

contractors. Recorded results were required to be submitted to the WTC Fire Safety Coordinator.

16 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Design Guidelines

Inspection, testing and maintenance was required to confonn to the recommended routines outlined in NFPA 2001, the BCNYC, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Directive reference and the manufacturer's maintenance and service manuals.

A separate duct purge system (minimum of 6 air changes per hour of exhaust rate) was required to exhaust the discharging gas to the outdoors. The exhaust duct was required to be arranged so no gas was

allowed to infiltrate into other spaces.

Complete contract drawings, specifications and testing procedures were required to be submitted to the Port Authority for review with the Tenant Alteration Application.

Halon Fire Extinguishing Systems

New halon fire extinguishing systems were not permitted to be installed in the WTC.

When an existing halon system was to be abandoned, the halon storage containers were to be carefully

removed so that halon would not be discharged. Containers were required to be returned for recycling, or recovery of the agent when no longer needed, to comply with NFPA 12A, Sec. 2-1.4.2 (1992 Edition).

If a tenant decided to keep an existing halon fire protection system, the following tasks were required to be performed:

1 . Inspection, testing and maintenance of automatic halon systems were required to be

performed by competent contractors. Recorded results were required to be submitted to the WTC Fire Safety Coordinator.

2. Inspection, testing and maintenance was required to conform to the recommended routine

outlined in NFPA 12A, FDNY Directives (dated October 22, 1990) and the manufacturer's

maintenance and service manuals.

3. A complete testing specification was required to be submitted to the Port Authority for review.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers were required to be provided for all spaces in accordance with the FDNY Directive, Rules for Portable Fire Appliances (dated September 17, 1980) and Section 27-4009 of

the New York City Fire Prevention Code (dated July 1, 1988).

4.3 FIRE ALARM

Requirements for fire alarm systems appear in the Electrical Design Guidelines, Specifications and

Standard Details for Electrical, Communications and Fire Alarm and in the Mandated Fire Alarm

Guidelines for the WTC Base Building Fire Alarm System Design, Construction, Maintenance and

Technical Support Services.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 17
Chapter 4

The Electrical Design Guidelines provided limited criteria for HVAC systems and the requirements for smoke detection systems.

The Mandated Fire Alann Guidelines (issued subsequent to the Electrical Design Guidelines) were

intended as a resource to the fire alarm design engineer tasked with interfacing to the WTC Base Building

Fire Alann System. The Fire Alarm System Design Guideline was applicable to the WTC Class E Base

Building Fire Alarm Systems installed in WTC 1 and WTC 2 after the 1 993 bombing.

The Fire Alann System Design Guideline describes the backbone system architecture, distribution of

terminal strip cabinets, ALD terminal cabinets, riser/one-line diagrams, fire detection and interface

devices, visual notification appliances (strobes), audible notification appliances (speakers), wiring and

acceptance test procedures.

4.4 FIREPROOFING ^ ;

The only reference in the Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines for fireproofing is an item under

the heading Light Weight Ceiling Support System for Floors w/Double Truss. The item states: "Removal

of fireproofing shall be kept to a minimum and shall be replaced by the contractor as directed by the Port Authority."

4.5 EGRESS

The Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines required an egress analysis to be a part of all submissions in which the proposed work affects the movement of people through the space. The analysis was required to include the following minimum infoimation:

• Construction Classification/Occupancy Classification

- Generally office space and related spaces shall be designed to meet the requirements of

Occupancy Group E classification and Construction Class I-B, in accordance with the

latest edition of the BCNYC.

• Entrance and Egress

- All exit doors and their sizes to be used to exit any space must be indicated on the drawing, as well as the allowed occupant load per exit width in accordance with the BCNYC.

• Travel Distances

- Travel distances to primary and secondaiy exits must be indicated following the path of

travel through each space.

• Occupant Load

- The office floors have been designed to sustain a live load, including partitions, which

shall not be exceeded. In areas where there is a concentration of files, storage, or heavy

18 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Design Guidelines

equipment, verification of the structural integrity of the floor system in these areas is required.

4.6 ELEVATORS AND HOISTWAYS

The Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines required all core walls to have a 2 h fire rating as required by the BCNYC. Since the elevators and hoistways were located in the core areas of WTC 1 and

WTC 2, the requirement for 2 h fire ratings would have applied to the elevators and hoistways.

NISTNCSTAR1-1H, WTC Investigation 19
Chapter 4

This page intentionally left blank.

20 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 5

Operation and Maintenance Manuals

The Maintenance Methods section of the Maintenance Engineering Design Division, Engineering

Department of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port Authority), established

Operation and Maintenance Manuals for various systems throughout the World Trade Center (WTC).

The instructions and recommendations of the manuals were created to aid and guide WTC personnel who

operated and maintained the various systems in the WTC. There are 34 manuals each with a different publication date most of which were finalized in the 1980s. Because not all of the manuals are applicable

to the purpose of this report, only those portions of the manuals associated with the fire protection and fire alarm systems will be summarized.

The inspection and maintenance procedures of the various building systems were outlined on Maintenance Procedure Cards (MPCs). The work to be done and the associated intervals are outUned in the following sections.

5.1 FIRE SUPPRESSION

Instruction Manuals #13 (1981), #18 (1987), and #23 (1986) establish, among other things, inspection and

maintenance procedures for the multiple fire sprinkler, standpipe, and special hazard systems located

throughout the WTC. The fire sprinkler inspection and maintenance procedures are outlined on MPC

numbers F-2H, M-86, M-137 and E-8. The procedures are as follows:

MPC F-2H

Work to be Done: Inspect and test sprinkler flow alarai system.

Frequency: 5 times per year. (Drain valves and inspector's test valves only)

Annually. (Main control valves)

Description:

1 . A visual inspection should be made to determine that:

a. Sprinklers are not painted, corroded, or physically damaged.

b. High temperature sprinklers are used where excess ceiling temperatures exist. (Be alert to newly installed heat producing devices.)

c. A supply of extra sprinklers is available. (Note special type used in refi-igerated spaces.)

d. There is no obstruction to sprinkler water distribution by high-piled material or partitions.

(At least 18 in. of clearance is required; 36 in. if sprinklers are the spray type and stored material consists of large, closely packed piles of cases, bales, or cartons.)

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 21
Chapter 5

2. If applicable, operate main sprinkler control valves and ensure reception of tamper switch

alarm operation at the Police Security Desk. (Annually.)

3. Return control valves to open position and test all sprinkler flow alarms with actual flow by

operating the drain valve or the inspector's test valve.

4. Ensure reception of a flow alarm at the Police Security Desk and local annunciator panel (if

applicable) within specified time limit.

5. Ensure reception of main supply flow alanri on the annunciator panel in the control room on

Level B4.

6. Check for proper shutdown of all interconnected fans.

7. Return system and interlocked fans to operating conditions.

'

8. Report unusual conditions to appropriate authority verbally and in writing.

9. Record inspection and testing of system in log.

MPCM-86

Work to be Done: Check for proper operation of the high and low water alarms on fire reserve tanks.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Make arrangements to have test witnessed by the Risk Management Division and the insurance caniers.

2. Coordinate test with the Electrical section's cleaning, inspecting, and testing.

3. Inform the WTC police of the test.

4. Install the sprinkler pump test manifold on the 6" sprinkler pump test connection located on

the West Street wall of the Customs House. Note: When testing the pump on the 108th

floor, open the test line to the sprinkler reserve tank on the 1 1 0th floor.

5. Secure the sprinkler pump on the other tower.

6. Start the pump and take the following readings with a closed discharge at rated capacity and

at 1 50 percent capacity:

a. Flow rate

b. Discharge pressure

22 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance Manuals

c. Suction pressure

d. Pump speed

7. Record all readings and findings in the maintenance history log.

8. Report all deficiencies verbally to the foreman and in writing on the routine work order.

MFC M-137

Work to be Done: Check high and low water alarms on fire reserve tanks.

Frequency: 5 times per year.

Description:

1 . Fill tank until high water alarm is activated. Tanks should need only a few inches of

additional water for alarm activation.

2. Drain tank until low water alann is activated.

3. Refill tank to noraial level.

MPC E-8

Work to be Done: Clean, inspect and test pump motor and associated controls.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Coordinate the cleaning, inspecting, and testing of the pump motor with the fire pump

capacity test to be perfonned by the mechanical section.

2. Inform the WTC police of the pump shutdown.

3. De-energize motor and place an "Out of Service" tag on the motor starter.

4. Lockout and ground all feeders and equipment.

5. Clean housing and interior of control panel.

6. Replace defective contacts, if any, in pairs and return discarded contacts to the shop.

7. Tighten all electrical connections.

8. If possible, blow out or vacuum clean motor starter and rotor windings.

9. Report any evidence of corrosion and dampness to the foreman.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 23
Chapters

" '

10. Reenergize motor. ^

11. Test run and take amprobe readings required by the mechanical test and compare them to the motor nameplate rating. Ratings should not be more than 90 percent of nameplate rating.

12. Check for unusual noise or vibration.

13. Inspect motor controller for overheating and check for defective contacts.

14. Check all aluminum current carrying connections with the infrared heat gun and note all temperatures above 1 20 °F.

15. Record all readings and findings in the maintenance history log.

16. Replace all defective indicator lamps. ^ '

17. Report all deficiencies verbally to the foreman and in writing on the routine work order.

Haion Systems

The inspection, maintenance and testing of the halon systems were perfonned by two outside contractors. One was responsible for the fire detection, warning and activation subsystems and the other was

responsible for the halon extinguishing subsystem. The annual and semi-annual inspection procedures

conformed to the recommended service routines required in National Fire Protection Association 12A and

the listed manufacturer's maintenance and service manuals. The procedures were as follows:

Fire Detection, Warning and Activation Subsystems

The semiannual inspection of the fire detection, warning and activation subsystems include the following:

1 . A visual inspection of the 88 ionization detector heads, and the removal of loose dust

accumulation by gently tapping the detector head.

2. Activation of one detector in each of the 1 1 protected areas, resetting the system after each

alann, and checking for all required alarni signals.

3. Repetition of Step #2 on at least one detector with only battery power applied to the system.

4. A check of the supervisory circuit and associated signals by placing the system in a Trouble

condition.

5. The taking of voltage reading, the checking of water levels, and the cleaning of cases of all system batteries.

6. A check of all system components for obvious physical damage.

7. The replacement of all burned out system lamps.

24 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance l^anuals

8. The resetting of the system immediately following completion of the inspection.

The annual inspection of the fire detection, warning and activation subsystems include the following:

1 . The semiannual inspection described above.

2. A check of the sensitivity of each of the 88 fire detectors utilizing the test equipment

recommended by the detector manufacturer.

3. The activation of every detector, checking that all proper single and cross-zoning indications

and alanns are produced, and all subsequent operations including interlocks with other

systems and equipment function properly.

4. The activation of all manual-electric controls while checking for proper operation and

response.

5. A check of the operation of the Purge control Panel.

Halon Fire Extinguishing Subsystem

The semiannual inspection of the halon fire extinguishing subsystem includes the following:

1. The checking of the pressure of all halon 1301 gas cyhnders and the recording of this pressure on a permanent log affixed to the cylinder.

2. The removal fi-om the system and the weighing of each halon 1301 cylinder.

3. A check of all system components for obvious corrosion and physical damage.

4. The resetting of the fire extinguishing subsystem immediately following completion of the inspection.

The annual inspection of the halon fire extinguishing subsystem includes the following:

1 . The semiannual inspection outlined above.

2. The activation of each halon pressure switch and the checking of alarms.

3. The inspection of all halon 1301 cylinders and cylinder racks for satisfactory condition.

4. A spot inspection of piping and pipe hangers and straps for corrosion and proper support. (At

least one full pipe length and related hangers and straps should be inspected in each protected

area).

5. A visual inspection of all halon discharge nozzles for proper position, alignment, and clear unobstructed orifices.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 25
Chapter 5

5.2 FIRE ALARM

Instruction Manual #23 establishes, among other things, inspection and maintenance procedures for the

fire detection systems located throughout the WTC. The fire alann inspection and maintenance

procedures are outlined on MFC numbers E-lOA, E-lOB, E-23, E-24, E-25, E-26, E-32, E-36 and E-37.

Instruction manual #12 also provides inspection and maintenance procedures for the Smoke Detection

System on the Observation Deck of Tower B. The procedures are as follows:

MFC E-10A

Work to be Done: Clean, inspect, and test the ventilation smoke alarm system and controls.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Consult manufacturers' specifications for particular equipment requirements before

performing any maintenance work.

2. Prior to testing, notify the Police Security Desk of the test and maintenance.

3. Shut power to control panel.

4. Clean and inspect control panel. Tighten connections. Check for unusual conditions.

5. Reenergize control panel.

6. Check supervisory AC circuit, supervisory DC circuit, and supervision of detector circuit.

7. Disconnect automatic extinguishing devices connected to the system (e.g., halon and carbon

dioxide extinguishers).

8. Utilizing a sensitivity test set, test each detector and check for proper response at the control

panel and computer center. Log readings.

9. Check that all detector identification labels are proper.

10. Check detector head screen for dust accumulation. If necessary, remove screen and brush

clean.

1 1 . The air holes in the air sampling tubes of the air duct detector should be cleaned as required

to insure that the unit receives a proper air sample.

12. Test detector in both the static and dynamic conditions. Under dynamic test, check for proper

operation of fan shutdown controls.

26 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Section I PANYNJ Guidelines for Inspection,

Repair, and Modifications to Fire

Protection Systems
This page intentionally left blank.
Executive Summary

As part of the analysis of building and fire codes and standards of the National Institute of Standards and

Technology World Trade Center (WTC) Investigation, this report supports the effort to document the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) guidelines for inspection, repair, and modifications to the fire protection systems in the WTC. Over the life of the buildings, in particular WTC I, 2, and 7, repairs and modifications were made. These changes, depending on the magnitude of the enhancement,

may have affected the overall building performance. The purpose of this report is to document the PANYNJ guidelines for inspection, repair, and modifications to fire protection and egress systems in WTC 1, 2, and 7. These include guidelines governing the inspection and upgrading of fire alarm and fire suppression systems, the reapplication of fireproofing, and the upgrading of elevators, hoistways, and

elevator lobbies.

As part of the document search for this report, manuals, program standards, surveys, and correspondence

of many parties were reviewed and analyzed. The following sections provide a summary of the documents that include guidelines and procedures for maintaining and modifying the fire protection and

egress systems of the WTC.

Memorandums of Understanding

The PANYNJ, not being technically subject to the local building code of New York City, created a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the New York City Department of Buildings (NYCDB) in 1993 to establish procedures and avoid construction conflicts. The MOU ensured that any construction

project performed by the PANYNJ or any tenant within a PANYNJ building in New York City would

conform to the Building Code of the City of New York (BCNYC). The MOU gave the PANYNJ the

right to approve building plans. Any variance to the BCNYC, permitted by the PANYNJ, would be sent

to the NYCDB for review.

In June of 1995, a supplement to the PANYNJ/NYCDB MOU was added. The MOU supplement

permitted PANYNJ tenants to use New York State licensed engineers/architects to self certify

construction plans and certify that the installation was in accordance to the certified plans, provided the engineers/architects meets the qualifications established by PANYNJ. The person approving the construction plans could not be the same person certifying that the installation was in accordance with the approved plans until September of 1995, when another supplement was added. The September 1995

supplement permitted a single New York State licensed engineer/architect to certify the construction

plans and the installation.

In 1993, a MOU with the PANYNJ and the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) was established.

The MOU permitted the FDNY to conduct fire safety inspections at the PANYNJ facilities in New York

City. Upon inspection, the findings and recommendations were sent to PANYNJ for review and

corrective action if necessary. In 1995, an amendment to the MOU was adopted requiring written notice

to the FDNY of any additions or modifications to existing fire safety systems. The amendment also required the design and review of the addition or modification to be performed by a New York State

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 3
Executive Summary

licensed engineer or architect. Additionally, the amendment required the design and review of such

design to be performed by separate individuals.

Tenant Construction Review IVlanuals

The Tenant Construction Review Manuals were created by the Engineering Department, Quality

Assurance Division of PANYNJ. The manuals were created to establish technical criteria to be followed

by the tenants and their architectural and engineering consultants. Manuals were available from 1971 to 1997. The manuals indicated the applicable codes, standards and PANYNJ criteria that would be used to determine compliance of each modification or addition.

Design Guidelines

Various design guidelines were created by PANYNJ. Design guidelines were created for all the major

construction disciplines. The design guidelines included minimum specifications and standard details for use in the alteration projects throughout the WTC complex. Details pertaining to standpipe systems, fire sprinkler systems, fire alann systems, fireproofing and egress requirements were included.

Operation and IVIaintenance Manuals

The Engineering Department of PANYNJ established Operation and Maintenance Manuals (34 total) for the various systems throughout the WTC. Each manual contains Maintenance Procedure Cards

describing in detail the inspection and maintenance procedures for the work to be done, including the frequency of each test or maintenance. Manuals #13, #18, and #23 describe the details for the fire sprinkler, standpipe and special hazard systems. Manual #23 and #12 provides the procedures for the inspection and maintenance of the fire detection systems.

Port Authority Facility Condition Survey Program

A facility condition survey program was established to continually monitor the condition of the WTC

buildings. Engineering firms were contracted by PANYNJ to perform detailed inspections of the building

conditions. Various building components, including architectural and structural, were inspected, photos were taken, and reports were generated with recommendations and guidelines for repair or replacement as necessary. There are at least two reports that detail the inspection and testing of fireproofing materials.

Structural Integrity Testing and Inspection Program

The Structural Integrity' Testing and Inspection Program was established by the PANYNJ Engineering

Department and Leslie E. Robertson Associates to monitor the structural integrity of WTC 1 and WTC 2. Although the complete details of this program are not summarized in this report, important procedures for the repair of fire proofing material are discussed. It was recommended to repair fire proofing material

with the same brand and type inifially used, where practical. Additional procedures were given based on

the size of area being repaired and brand of material identified.

4 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Executive Summary

Tenants Manual

In 1984, the World Trade Center Tenants Manual was developed to provide WTC tenants infomiation

regarding the functions of the Operations Division of WTC. By following building standard

requirements, the Operations Division could be contracted by a tenant to make alterations without having

to hire an outside contractor or go through the review process with the WTC Planning Department.

Other Documents

As part of each tenant modification, specifications were created to establish minimum requirements as required by codes. There were literally hundreds of tenant alterations performed in WTC 1 , 2, and 7. Summaries of the alterations on the affected floors of WTC 1 and WTC 2 and all of the alterations in WTC 7 are contained in a separate report. However, a specification to replace fireproofing material on

the exposed columns and beams within the elevator shaft of WTC 1 identified additional procedures used

at the WTC. This is discussed in Chapter 9 of this report. This specification listed the performance

criteria, testing, and inspection requirements for fire proofing material.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 5
Executive Summary

This page intentionally left blank.

6 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 1 Introduction

Over the course of years, the World Trade Center (WTC) complex and surrounding buildings were altered for numerous reasons, including tenant alterations, inspections, building repairs, enhancement, and

maintenance. As changes occurred, the need to maintain safety standards arose. The Port Authority of

New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) adopted policies that set forth procedures to maintain and enhance

safety standards at PANYNJ facilities. The purpose of this report is to document the PANYNJ guidelines

for inspection, repair, and modifications to fire protection and egress systems in WTC 1, 2, and 7. These

include guidelines governed the inspection and upgrading of fire alarm and fire suppression systems, the reapplication of fireproofing, and the upgrading of elevators, hoistways, and elevator lobbies.

The guidelines and policies are found in many PANYNJ documents and involved many parties. Manuals,

program standards, surveys, and correspondence have been reviewed and analyzed in an effort to summarize the modification guidelines. Documents containing important information used in the process of performing building modifications are summarized in the following sections.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 7
Chapter 1

s

This page intentionally left blank.

8 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 2

Memorandums of Understanding

The facilities of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port Authority), an

interstate compact under the U.S. Constitution, are not technically subject to the requirements of the local building codes, although PANYNJ intended to voluntarily follow the New York City codes where

applicable. In order to minimize conflicts between PANYNJ and the New York City requirements for the World Trade Center (WTC), Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were executed. One MOU was

executed between PANYNJ and the New York City Department of Buildings (NYCDB) in 1993

(PANYNJ 1993a). Another MOU was executed between PANYNJ and the New York City Fire

Department (FDNY) also in 1993 (PANYNJ 1993b).

In November 1993, an agreement between PANYNJ and NYCDB was executed to establish procedures

and ensure that any construction project of the PANYNJ or any of its tenants at buildings owned or operated by PANYNJ located in New York City conform to the Building Code of the City of New York

(BCNYC).

Under the agreement to ensure conformance with the standards set forth in the Code at the time of design,

the parties agreed that the design and review of such systems be perfonned by New York State licensed

architects and engineers. Also, the New York State licensed architect and/or engineer approving the plans

for any addition or modification for the Port Authority may not have assisted in the preparation of such

plans. The Port Authority agreed to have each tenant obtain a certification from a New York State licensed architect or engineer that such system was constructed in accordance with the approved plans

and specifications. For systems effectuated by the Port Authority, the Chief Engineer or his successor in duties was to certify that the system was constructed in accordance with the approved plans and

specifications. The Port Authority was to maintain a file for each project, which would contain the most

current documents, including certifications, necessary to justify code confonnance. NYCDB was

permitted, to at any time, request the Port Authority to provide NYCDB with a copy of any fire safety

file. Any variance with the codes approved by the Chief Engineer of PANYNJ was to be sent to NYCDB. If NYCDB disagreed with the variance, NYCDB was to advise PANYNJ. Any matters of code

conformance not resolved were subject to further review of PANYNJ Board of Commissioners. The

MOU also indicates that PANYNJ would continue to conduct or cause to be conducted all building

inspections, during both construction and post-construction periods. PANYNJ is to continue to perfomi

structural integrity inspections on a cyclical basis for all of its structures located in New York City.

In June 1995, a supplement was added to the PANYNJ/NYCDB MOU. NYCDB had instituted an

optional plan review system since the execution of the original MOU. The supplement requires WTC

tenants to utilize New York State licensed architects or engineers meeting qualifications established by

PANYNJ to certify and review projects, in lieu of any review by the Port Authority. It also states that the person who reviews and certifies the construction plans for code confonnance cannot be the same person

that certifies that construction has been performed in accordance with the approved plans.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 9
Chapter 2

In September 1995, a change to the supplement of the PANYNJ/NYCDB MOU was executed in connection with the PANYNJ's Tenant Self-Certification Program at the WTC. The change allows a

single New York State licensed architect or engineer to certify both the construction plans and that construction is in conforaiance with the approved plans with the following exception if the alteration changes the character of the occupancy group under paragraph 27-237 of the BCNYC that would have

been applicable had such space been located in a privately owned building.

In December 1993, procedures were set forth to implement the existing policy established in April 1993

between PANYNJ and FDNY. The Port Authority agreed to pennit FDNY, acting through its Bureau of

Fire Prevention (BFP), to conduct fire safety inspections at any PANYNJ facility in New York City.

Upon inspection, BFP was to issue a report of fire safety findings and recommendations for corrective

action with respect to any deficiencies to the Port Authority's General Manager of Risk Management

operations. The Port Authority would undertake the implementation of such findings and corrective

actions and notify BFP of the actions taken. BFP also had the right to conduct follow-up inspections with

respect to any recommendations to PANYNJ.

In 1995, an Amendment to the PANYNJ/FDNY MOU was executed with respect to additions and/or

modifications to existing fire safety systems. The Port Authority was to notify BFP in writing prior to the introduction of any additions or modifications to existing fire safety systems in a PANYNJ facility in the City of New York. BFP agreed to permit PANYNJ to review additions and/or modifications to existing

fire safety systems. To ensure confonnance with the standards set forth in local codes and regulations,

the design and review of such systems were required to be perfomied by New York State licensed

architects and engineers. Also, the New York State licensed, architect and/or engineer approving the plans for any addition or modification was not to have assisted in the actual preparation of such plans.

This provision was later modified (September 1995) to pemiit the same New York State licensed architect or engineer to prepare and certify that plans met current code requirements.

The Port Authority agreed to require each tenant to obtain a certification from a New York State licensed

architect or engineer that modifications were constructed in accordance with the approved plans and

specifications. For systems effectuated by PANYNJ, the Port Authority Office of Risk Management

would certify that the system was constructed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.

PANYNJ would maintain a file for each new or modified system, which would contain the most current documents, including certifications, necessary to justify code conformance. BFP could at any time

request PANYNJ to provide BFP with a copy of any fire safety file. BFP could also audit any new or modified fire safety system to ensure conformance with the standards set forth in local codes and

regulations. However, when circumstances or conditions were unusual, the Port Authority could petition the BFP for a variance.

Whenever work was done in the WTC buildings, a project number was assigned by the Port Authority

under which all contracts, drawings, and correspondence was filed. These numbers are typically of the fonnat W(yy)-1234 (where yy is the year initiated and 1234 is a four-digit number). This report includes

these numbers as references to individual projects, and files retained by the Port Authority are identified

by these numbers.

10 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 3

Tenant Construction Review Manuals

The Tenant Construction Review Manual (the Manual) was prepared by the Engineering Department,

Quality Assurance Division of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port

Authority). Manuals were available between 1971 and March 1997. The Manual presents technical

criteria to be followed by tenants and their architectural and engineering consultants at all Port Authority

facilities, including the World Trade Center (WTC) complex. The following guidelines for inspection,

repair, and modifications to fire protection and egress systems are from the March 1997 (latest) edition of

the Manual.

3.1 GENERAL

Each chapter or section of the Manual refers to compliance with the applicable codes, standards, and Port Authority design criteria listed in the particular section. The codes and regulations referenced for use in New York City include the following:

1 . New York City Building Code and its Reference Standards

2. New York City Fire Prevention Code and Directives

3. New York City Local Laws

4. Rules of the Board of Standards and Appeals

5. New York State Labor Law

6. New York State Multiple Dwelling Law (Hotels)

7. New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code

8. Directives and Memoranda of the Department of Buildings

9. Rules of the City of New York, Title 1, Department of Buildings

10. New York City Electrical Code

1 1 . National Electrical Code

Additionally, tenant modifications at all Port Authority facilities were required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable Flood Controls.

In addition to the Reference Standards referenced in the Building Code of the City of New York

(BCNYC), the following standards are specifically referenced:

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 11
Chapter 3

1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 75, Computer Rooms

2. NFPA 20, Centrifugal Fire Pumps

3. NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code

4. NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code

5. NFPA Standards in areas not covered by codes

In addition to the Port Authority design criteria. Section 14 of the Manual outlines the requirements for acceptance (approval) of materials, assemblies, fornis, methods of construction, and the intended use of

equipment, as well as the requirements for inspection of materials, assemblies, and construction. The

requirements for the approval/acceptance of materials and equipment and the requirements for controlled

inspections are abstracted from the BCNYC.

3.2 FIRE SUPPRESSION

The guidelines for the installation and alteration of sprinkler and fire suppression systems are included in:

• Section 1 0 - Mechanical

• Section 1 1 - Plumbing

• Section 12 - Fire Protection

Section 10 - Mechanical covers fire suppression systems and controls. For the WTC, the Port Authority

Design Criteria refers to the published WTC guidelines for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning and

Fire Safety systems (see Design Guidelines below).

Section 1 1 - Plumbing covers fire sprinklers and standpipes. At the WTC, the Port Authority Design

Criteria for plumbing and fire protection work was required to confonn to the Tenant Plumbing/Fire

Protection Design Guidelines (see Design Guidelines below). Details of the representative fire protection

items reviewed by the PANYNJ include:

• Fire standpipe systems: floor plans, riser diagrams and available water pressure.

• Sprinkler/fire protection systems: water supplies, mains, risers, valves, Siamese connections,

etc., principal construction features of the building, electrical or automatic devices, and

hydrauHc calculations as required by NFPA 13.

• Other fire suppression systems: plans for chemical or gaseous fire suppression piping

systems were required to contain: the type of extinguishing agent and number and size of

agent containers, size, length and type of all piping used, number and location of all fusible

links or detectors and the temperature setting.

Section 1 2 - Fire Protection covers the design of various fire detection, alarni and suppression systems.

Details of representative fire protection items reviewed by the PANYNJ include:

12 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Tenant Construction Review Manuals

• Sprinkler and other systems using dry chemicals, foams, gaseous, and other extinguishing

agents shall be shown on drawings, signed and sealed by the Architect or Engineer of record, or if prepared by a specialized consultant, signed and sealed by such licensed consultant. Said consultants must be licensed to practice in the state in which the work will be perfonncd.

• Sprinkler plans shall indicate or list the appropriate information and data specified in NFPA 13 regarding available water sources, supply pressure, number and type of sprinklers,

fire department connections, hazard classification, alann devices, and supervisory

connections. Hydraulic computations shall be submitted when used.

3.3 FIRE ALARM

Section 12 - Fire Protection covers the design of various fire detection, alarm and suppression systems.

For the WTC complex, the Port Authority Design Criteria includes specific requirements for:

• Wiring: including general, initiating device circuits (smoke and heat detectors, system

interfaces and manual pull stations), notification appliance circuits, control circuits and power

supply.

• System: All components connected to the WTC Base Building Fire Alarm System were

required to be fully compatible with the Base System. Underwriters Laboratories,

Inc./Materials and Equipment Acceptance listings, cross listings and manufacturers'

approvals were required. Additional requirements include: field circuits, relay control

circuits and conventional inputs (waterflow, tamper, alann and trouble from tenant panels).

Details of the representative fire protection items reviewed by the PANYNJ include a complete fire alarm

riser diagram showing locations of all manual pull stations, visible and audible alerting devices, control panels and wiring where required to be provided.

3.4 FIREPROOFING

No specific design criteria is specified in Section 5 - Architectural, however, the Details of Architectural

Review include fire protection of building components and finishes (including documentation verifying

that all materials and equipment used are of an approved type).

Section 14 - Materials, Operations and Equipment Approval and Inspection includes the requirements for acceptance (approval) of materials, assemblies, etc. and the requirement for controlled inspections of

materials, assemblies and construction.

Spray-on fireproofing, in accordance with BCNYC Sec. 27-345(h), is specifically listed as an item subject

to controlled inspection. Such inspection is required to be made and witnessed by or under the direct supervision of a registered architect or professional engineer.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 13
Chapter 3

3.5 EGRESS

Section 5 - Architectural covers the scope of the architectural review consisting of compliance with the applicable codes, standards and PANYNJ design criteria. Other than the referenced codes and

regulations, no specific means of egress design criteria is stated.

The Details of Architectural Review in Section 5 include egress, establishing occupant load and existing

capacity, including door and hardware requirements.

In addition. Section 10 - Mechanical includes requirements for smoke detectors and fire/smoke dampers

at ducts entering "safe areas," exit passageways and lobbies.

14 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 4

Design Guidelines

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port Authority) prepared several Design

Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details for use in construction and alterations at the World Trade

Center (WTC) complex. The following guidelines were reviewed for criteria pertaining to the maintenance and modifications of fire protection and egress systems:

• Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details -

February 27, 1998.

• Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details Program for heating, ventilating, and

air conditioning (HVAC), Fire Protection and Plumbing - Revised May 1 1, 1998.

• Electrical Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details for Electrical,

Communications and Fire Alarm - November 25, 1997.

• Mandated Fire Alarm Guidelines for the WTC Base Building Fire Alarm System Design,

Construction, Maintenance and Technical Support Services - March 1999.

The following sections outline the inspection, repair, and modification criteria established for the fire protection and egress systems.

The Design Guidelines were intended to provide design requirements and criteria for tenant alterations at WTC. The design specifications were intended to provide the tenant's consultant engineer with WTC

requirements for each of the respective trades. The substance of the specifications was required to be

included in the construction documents.

The scope of the architectural and engineering reviews was to ensure compliance with the applicable

codes, standards and WTC Design Criteria.

Although the scope of this report does not address compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act

(ADA), several references are made to ADA regarding egress requirements, such as door hardware and

access/corridor dimensions and visual warning devises (strobes) connected to the fire alarm system.

The Design Guidelines, Specifications and Standard Details Program for HVAC, Fire Protection and

Plumbing outline the criteria for wet-pipe sprinkler systems, preaction systems, fire standpipe systems,

clean agent extinguishing systems, halon fire extinguishing systems and portable fire extinguishers as follows:

4.1 GENERAL

4.2 FIRE SUPPRESSION

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 15
Chapter 4

Wet-Pipe Sprinkler Systems

All tenant spaces were required to be sprinklered. At the time the Design Guidelines were published,

most tenant floors in the WTC were provided with wet-pipe sprinkler systems. New tenants noraially

required a new sprinkler system. For renovations of existing spaces, modifications to the existing system

would normally need to comply with any new partition configuration.

Sprinkler work was required to be designed to comply with the requirements of the Building Code of the City of New York (BCNYC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 13 and the PANYNJ design

guides. In areas requiring specialized sprinkler systems, additional applicable standards as referenced in NFPA 13 were required to be used for design, including but not limited to the following NFPA 15, 16,

231, and 23 IC.

Sprinkler systems were required to be hydraulically designed. A pipe schedule design was only permitted

for minor renovations that did not change the number of heads, and where only a few existing sprinkler

heads required relocation.

Preaction Systems

Only a single zone detecting system was required to be used. Actuation of the fire detection system was

required to open the preaction valve pennitting water to flow into the sprinkler system piping. Sprinkler

pipe sizing was required to be hydraulically calculated.

Preaction systems may have been required when wet-pipe sprinkler systems were not provided in computer rooms to protect the areas above the raised floor. As an alternative, a total flooding, clean agent

fire extinguishing system was permitted. Areas under raised floors, where wiring was installed in raceways and combustibles are limited, only required smoke detector protection. If the amount of

combustibles was extensive, and/or the cabling was not in raceways, these areas were required to be

protected by a carbon dioxide system or an approved total flooding, clean agent system.

Fire Standpipe Systems

In WTC 1 and WTC 2, three fire standpipe risers supplied water to the hose stations on Floors 1 through

1 10. Risers FS-Fl, FS-F2 and FS-F3 were located in Stairway B (Stairway 3), C (Stairway 2), and A

(Stairway 1), respectively. Riser FS-Fl supplied water to all hose racks in Stairway B and also to all auxiliary hose cabinets in the corridors and tenant areas.

In WTC 1 and WTC 2, tenant auxiliary standpipe systems were only pennitted to be connected to the existing capped outlets provided at fire standpipe riser FS-Fl located in Stairway B.

Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

New installations of gas-fired extinguishing systems were permitted in the WTC where the systems were

approved by New York City.

Inspection, testing and maintenance of automatic gas systems was required to be performed by competent

contractors. Recorded results were required to be submitted to the WTC Fire Safety Coordinator.

16 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Design Guidelines

Inspection, testing and maintenance was required to conform to the recommended routines outlined in NFPA 2001, the BCNYC, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Directive reference and the manufacturer's maintenance and service manuals.

A separate duct purge system (minimum of 6 air changes per hour of exhaust rate) was required to exhaust the discharging gas to the outdoors. The exhaust duct was required to be arranged so no gas was

allowed to infiltrate into other spaces.

Complete contract drawings, specifications and testing procedures were required to be submitted to the Port Authority for review with the Tenant Alteration Application.

Halon Fire Extinguishing Systems

New halon fire extinguishing systems were not permitted to be installed in the WTC.

When an existing halon system was to be abandoned, the halon storage containers were to be carefully

removed so that halon would not be discharged. Containers were required to be returned for recycling, or recovery of the agent when no longer needed, to comply with NFPA 12 A, Sec. 2-1.4.2 (1992 Edition).

If a tenant decided to keep an existing halon fire protection system, the following tasks were required to be perfonned:

1 . Inspection, testing and maintenance of automatic halon systems were required to be

performed by competent contractors. Recorded results were required to be submitted to the WTC Fire Safety Coordinator.

2. Inspection, testing and maintenance was required to confonn to the recommended routine

outlined in NFPA 12A, FDNY Directives (dated October 22, 1990) and the manufacturer's

maintenance and service manuals.

3. A complete testing specification was required to be submitted to the Port Authority for review.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers were required to be provided for all spaces in accordance with the FDNY Directive, Rules for Portable Fire Apphances (dated September 17, 1980) and Section 27-4009 of

the New York City Fire Prevention Code (dated July 1, 1988).

4.3 FIRE ALARM

Requirements for fire alarm systems appear in the Electrical Design Guidelines, Specifications and

Standard Details for Electrical, Communications and Fire Alarm and in the Mandated Fire Alarm

Guidehnes for the WTC Base Building Fire Alarm System Design, Construction, Maintenance and

Technical Support Services.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 17
Chapter 4

The Electrical Design Guidelines provided limited criteria for HVAC systems and the requirements for smoke detection systems.

The Mandated Fire Alann Guidelines (issued subsequent to the Electrical Design Guidelines) were

intended as a resource to the fire alarm design engineer tasked with interfacing to the WTG Base Building

Fire Alann System. The Fire Alarm System Design Guidehne was apphcable to the WTC Class E Base

Building Fire Alarm Systems installed in WTC 1 and WTC 2 after the 1993 bombing.

The Fire Alarm System Design Guideline describes the backbone system architecture, distribution of

teiTninal strip cabinets, ALD terminal cabinets, riser/one-line diagrams, fire detection and interface

devices, visual notification appliances (strobes), audible notification apphances (speakers), wiring and

acceptance test procedures.

4.4 FIREPROOFING ^

The only reference in the Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines for fireproofing is an item under

the heading Light Weight Ceiling Support System for Floors w/Double Truss. The item states: "Removal

of fireproofing shall be kept to a minimum and shall be replaced by the contractor as directed by the Port

Authority."

4.5 EGRESS

The Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines required an egress analysis to be a part of all submissions in which the proposed work affects the movement of people through the space. The analysis was required to include the following minimum infonnation:

• Construction Classification/Occupancy Classification

- Generally office space and related spaces shall be designed to meet the requirements of

Occupancy Group E classification and Construction Class I-B, in accordance with the

latest edition of the BCNYC.

• Entrance and Egress

- All exit doors and their sizes to be used to exit any space must be indicated on the drawing, as well as the allowed occupant load per exit width in accordance with the BCNYC.

• Travel Distances

- Travel distances to primary and secondary exits must be indicated following the path of

travel through each space.

• Occupant Load

- The office floors have been designed to sustain a live load, including partitions, which

shall not be exceeded. In areas where there is a concentration of files, storage, or heavy

18 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Design Guidelines

equipment, verification of the structural integrity of the floor system in these areas is required.

4.6 ELEVATORS AND HOISTWAYS

The Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines required all core walls to have a 2 h fire rating as required by the BCNYC. Since the elevators and hoistways were located in the core areas of WTC 1 and

WTC 2, the requirement for 2 h fire ratings would have applied to the elevators and hoistways.

NISTNCSTAR1-1H, WTC Investigation 19
Chapter 4

This page intentionally left blank.

20 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 5

Operation and Maintenance Manuals

The Maintenance Methods section of the Maintenance Engineering Design Division, Engineering

Department of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port Authority), estabHshed

Operation and Maintenance Manuals for various systems throughout the World Trade Center (WTC).

The instructions and recommendations of the manuals were created to aid and guide WTC personnel who

operated and maintained the various systems in the WTC. There are 34 manuals each with a different publication date most of which were finalized in the 1980s. Because not all of the manuals are applicable

to the purpose of this report, only those portions of the manuals associated with the fire protection and fire alarm systems will be summarized.

The inspection and maintenance procedures of the various building systems were outlined on

Maintenance Procedure Cards (MPCs). The work to be done and the associated intervals are outlined in the following sections.

5.1 FIRE SUPPRESSION

Instruction Manuals #13 (1981), #18 (1987), and #23 (1986) estabhsh, among other things, inspection and

maintenance procedures for the multiple fire sprinkler, standpipe, and special hazard systems located

throughout the WTC. The fire sprinkler inspection and maintenance procedures are outlined on MPC

numbers F-2H, M-86, M-137 and E-8. The procedures are as follows:

MPC F-2H

Work to be Done: Inspect and test sprinkler flow alarm system.

Frequency: 5 times per year. (Drain valves and inspector's test valves only)

Annually. (Main control valves)

Description:

1 . A visual inspection should be made to determine that:

a. Sprinklers are not painted, corroded, or physically damaged.

b. High temperature sprinklers are used where excess ceiling temperatures exist. (Be alert to newly installed heat producing devices.)

c. A supply of extra sprinklers is available. (Note special type used in refrigerated spaces.)

d. There is no obstruction to sprinkler water distribution by high-piled material or partitions.

(At least 18 in. of clearance is required; 36 in. if sprinklers are the spray type and stored material consists of large, closely packed piles of cases, bales, or cartons.)

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 21
Chapter 5

2. If applicable, operate main sprinkler control valves and ensure reception of tamper switch

alarm operation at the Police Security Desk. (Annually.)

3. Return control valves to open position and test all sprinkler flow alanns with actual flow by

operating the drain valve or the inspector's test valve.

4. Ensure reception of a flow alarm at the Police Security Desk and local annunciator panel (if

applicable) within specified time limit.

5. Ensure reception of main supply flow alarm on the aimunciator panel in the control room on

Level B4.

6. Check for proper shutdown of all interconnected fans.

7. Return system and interlocked fans to operating conditions.

'

8. Report unusual conditions to appropriate authority verbally and in writing.

9. Record inspection and testing of system in log.

MPCM-86

Work to be Done: Check for proper operation of the high and low water alanns on fire reserve tanks.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Make arrangements to have test witnessed by the Risk Management Division and the insurance carriers.

2. Coordinate test with the Electrical section's cleaning, inspecting, and testing.

3. Inform the WTC police of the test.

4. Install the sprinkler pump test manifold on the 6" sprinkler pump test connection located on

the West Street wall of the Customs House. Note: When testing the pump on the 108th

floor, open the test line to the sprinkler reserve tank on the 1 1 0th floor.

5. Secure the sprinkler pump on the other tower.

6. Start the pump and take the following readings with a closed discharge at rated capacity and

at 150 percent capacity:

a. Flow rate

b. Discharge pressure

22 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance Manuals

c. Suction pressure

d. Pump speed

7. Record all readings and findings in the maintenance history log.

8. Report all deficiencies verbally to the foreman and in writing on the routine work order.

MPC M-137

Work to be Done: Check high and low water alarms on fire reserve tanks.

Frequency: 5 times per year.

Description:

1 . Fill tank until high water alann is activated. Tanks should need only a few inches of

additional water for alann activation.

2. Drain tank until low water alann is activated.

3. Refill tank to nonnal level.

MPC E-8

Work to be Done: Clean, inspect and test pump motor and associated controls.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Coordinate the cleaning, inspecting, and testing of the pump motor with the fire pump

capacity test to be performed by the mechanical section.

2. Inform the WTC police of the pump shutdown.

3. De-energize motor and place an "Out of Service" tag on the motor starter.

4. Lockout and ground all feeders and equipment.

5. Clean housing and interior of control panel.

6. Replace defective contacts, if any, in pairs and return discarded contacts to the shop.

7. Tighten all electrical connections.

8. If possible, blow out or vacuum clean motor starter and rotor windings.

9. Report any evidence of corrosion and dampness to the foreman.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 23
Chapter 5

" ^

10. Reenergize motor.

1 1 . Test run and take amprobe readings required by the mechanical test and compare them to the motor nameplate rating. Ratings should not be more than 90 percent of nameplate rating.

12. Check for unusual noise or vibration.

13. Inspect motor controller for overheating and check for defective contacts.

14. Check all aluminum current carrying connections with the infrared heat gun and note all temperatures above 120 °F.

15. Record all readings and findings in the maintenance history log.

16. Replace all defective indicator lamps.

^ - '

'

17. Report all deficiencies verbally to the foreman and in writing on the routine work order.

Halon Systems

The inspection, maintenance and testing of the halon systems were perfonned by two outside contractors. One was responsible for the fire detection, warning and activation subsystems and the other was

responsible for the halon extinguishing subsystem. The annual and semi-annual inspection procedures

confonned to the recommended service routines required in National Fire Protection Association 12A and

the listed manufacturer's maintenance and service manuals. The procedures were as follows:

Fire Detection, Warning and Activation Subsystems

The semiannual inspection of the fire detection, warning and activation subsystems include the following:

1 . A visual inspection of the 88 ionization detector heads, and the removal of loose dust

accumulation by gently tapping the detector head.

2. Activation of one detector in each of the 1 1 protected areas, resetting the system after each

alann, and checking for all required alarm signals.

3. Repetition of Step #2 on at least one detector with only battery power applied to the system.

4. A check of the supervisory circuit and associated signals by placing the system in a Trouble

condition.

5. The taking of voltage reading, the checking of water levels, and the cleaning of cases of all system batteries.

6. A check of all system components for obvious physical damage.

7. The replacement of all burned out system lamps.

24 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance l\/lanuals

8. The resetting of the system immediately following completion of the inspection.

The annual inspection of the fire detection, warning and activation subsystems include the following:

1. The semiannual inspection described above.

2. A check of the sensitivity of each of the 88 fire detectors utilizing the test equipment

recommended by the detector manufacturer.

3. The activation of every detector, checking that all proper single and cross-zoning indications

and alanns are produced, and all subsequent operations including interlocks with other

systems and equipment function properly.

4. The activation of all manual-electric controls while checking for proper operation and

response.

5. A check of the operation of the Purge control Panel.

Halon Fire Extinguishing Subsystem

The semiannual inspection of the halon fire extinguishing subsystem includes the following:

1. The checking of the pressure of all halon 1301 gas cylinders and the recording of this pressure on a permanent log affixed to the cylinder.

2. The removal from the system and the weighing of each halon 1301 cylinder.

3. A check of all system components for obvious corrosion and physical damage.

4. The resetting of the fire extinguishing subsystem immediately following completion of the

inspection.

The annual inspection of the halon fire extinguishing subsystem includes the following:

1 . The semiannual inspection outlined above.

2. The activation of each halon pressure switch and the checking of alarms.

3. The inspection of all halon 1301 cylinders and cylinder racks for satisfactory condition.

4. A spot inspection of piping and pipe hangers and straps for corrosion and proper support. (At

least one full pipe length and related hangers and straps should be inspected in each protected

area).

5. A visual inspection of all halon discharge nozzles for proper position, alignment, and clear unobstructed orifices.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 25
Chapter 5

5.2 FIRE ALARM

Instruction Manual #23 establishes, among other things, inspection and maintenance procedures for the

fire detection systems located throughout the WTC. The fire alann inspection and maintenance

procedures are outlined on MPC numbers E-lOA, E-lOB, E-23, E-24, E-25, E-26, E-32, E-36 and E-37.

Instruction manual #12 also provides inspection and maintenance procedures for the Smoke Detection

System on the Observation Deck of Tower B. The procedures are as follows:

MPC E-10A

Work to be Done: Clean, inspect, and test the ventilation smoke alarm system and controls.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Consult manufacturers' specifications for particular equipment requirements before

performing any maintenance work.

2. Prior to testing, notify the Police Security Desk of the test and maintenance.

3. Shut power to control panel.

4. Clean and inspect control panel. Tighten connections. Check for unusual conditions.

5. Reenergize control panel.

6. Check supervisoiy AC circuit, supervisory DC circuit, and supervision of detector circuit.

7. Disconnect automatic extinguishing devices connected to the system (e.g., halon and carbon

dioxide extinguishers).

8. Utilizing a sensitivity test set, test each detector and check for proper response at the control

panel and computer center. Log readings.

9. Check that all detector identification labels are proper.

10. Check detector head screen for dust accumulation. If necessary, remove screen and brush

clean.

1 1 . The air holes in the air sampling tubes of the air duct detector should be cleaned as required

to insure that the unit receives a proper air sample.

12. Test detector in both the static and dynamic conditions. Under dynamic test, check for proper

operation of fan shutdown controls.

26 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance Manuals

13. After completing the alann tests, reconnect all automatic extinguishing equipment and notify

proper authorities.

14. Report any deficiencies to the foreman verbally, and in writing on the routine work order.

MPC E-10B

Work to be Done: Clean, inspect and test interior return air and elevator lobby smoke alarm systems.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1. Notify the Police Security Desk of the test and maintenance.

2. Locate the smoke detector head and activate it using sensitivity tester. Record reading in log

book and check for proper alarm indication at the computer tenninal.

3. Remove detector head and check for proper indication at computer terminal.

4. Dust and wash detector head.

5. Replace detector head.

6. Using sensitivity tester, reactivate detector.

7. Reset the controls on panel box and make final check with computer tenninal.

8. Report any deficiencies to foreman verbally and in writing on the routine work order.

MPC E-23

Work to be Done: Service public address system and fire station and intercom console (Executone).

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Prior to testing, notify Police Security Desk and the New York City Fire Department

(FDNY).

2. Remove module and replace with spare.

3. Clean contacts with chemicals and burnishing tools.

4. Adjust contact leaf pressure as required.

5. In odd-numbered years only, group relamp indicator lamps.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H. WTC Investigation 27
Chapter 5

6. Replace spare module with service module. Restore to service and test.

7. Report any deficiencies to foreman verbally and in writing on the routine work order.

MPC E-24

Work to be Done: Service public address system amplifiers (Executone).

Frequency: Monthly.

Description:

1 . Remove and clean the air intake filters.

2. Wipe and vacuum clean fi-ont blower enclosure. ^

'

3. Add 2 drops of non-detergent oil in each of the 2 oil cups per blower.

4. Remove panels in rear of enclosure. Disconnect blower unit. Wipe clean and vacuum rear of

blower unit. Pay particular attention to the area of the air flow switch.

5. Wipe clean and vacuum amplifiers and housing.

6. Spot relamp defective indicator lamps on face of enclosure. Once each year, on the first pay

period, group relamp.

7. Report any deficiencies to foreman verbally and in writing on the routine work order.

MPC E-25

Work to be Done: Test public address system amplifiers (Executone).

Frequency: Quarterly.

Description:

1 . Test amplifiers with oscilloscope for proper wave shape and output level.

2. Make proper adjustments.

3. Report any deficiencies to foreman verbally and in writing on the routine work order.

MPCE-26

Work to be Done: Clean, inspect, and test the fire alarm signal boxes.

Frequency: Monthly.

28 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H. WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance Manuals

Description:

1 . Prior to testing, notify the Police Security Office.

2. Deactivate appropriate zone pull box.

3. Clean and lubricate as necessary.

4. Perform operational test. Trip electrically and check for proper operation and indication on

fire station system console.

MPC E-32

Work to be Done: Test fire call boxes.

Frequency: Annually.

Description:

1 . Prior to testing, notify the Police Security Office.

2. One man remains at the console while the other tests the local boxes.

3. The roving man should take extra break glass rods with him.

4. Turn the time to maximum on the zone you are working on, and pull the 110 V AC clock

plug in back of the module. This will keep the rest of the system in auto mode while

disabling the one module to be worked on. Note: If an alarm comes in from another box in the zone being tested, notify police to send an alarm to the FDNY.

5. At the fire call box, pay particular attention to the door latch for proper functioning.

Lubricate if necessary.

6. Ensure smooth door swing.

7. Remove the break glass and check for the fire call at the console.

8. Check both channels A and B for clear voice communication from station to console.

9. Check for smooth plunger action on the microswitch and lubricate if needed.

10. Log location, date, and results of each test in equipment log.

11. Notify the Police Security Office when the test is completed. Note: Be sure to reinstall the clock plug and reset the timer before leaving.

12. Notify the system foreman of any problems.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 29
Chapter 5

MPCE-36

Work to be Done: Service facility recording unit.

Frequency: Semiannually.

Description:

1 . Notify the Police Security Desk that you are removing recording unit from console.

2. Disconnect all connections to recorder.

3. Remove recorder from console.

4. Maintenance on unit: j

a. Clean out dust and dirt.

b. Lubricate moving parts.

c. Make adjustments to linkages if needed.

d. Clean and demagnetize recording heads. ^

e. Check operation of motors and solenoids.

f Check condition of drive belts, replace if necessary.

5. Replace recorder in console.

6. Restore all wiring and test for proper operation.

MPC E-37

Work to be Done: Perform operational check on duct speaker amplifiers.

Frequency; Annually.

Description:

1 . Disconnect 70 V input signal from building base amplifiers (TB-2-2A and 3).

2. Remove amplifier power plug from 1 1 0 V outlet.

3. Connect 70 V input from test unit to TB-2-2A and 3.

4. Discormect plug assembly for duct speakers from P-3013 amplifier (TB-1).

5. Install test load plug to amplifier (TB-1). (20 V transfomiers (4), 100 OHM resistor.)

6. Hook up jumper leads to existing 24 V line (TB-1). Positive to #7, negative to #7A.

30 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H. WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance Manuals

7. Replace 1 10 V plug in outlet.

8. Using multimeter, adjust signal generator for 1 V, 1000 cycles into 200 W test amplifier.

This will provide 70 V input for P-3013 amplifier.

9. Turn on test amp.

10. Leave all potentiometer settings in initial position. Make test to determine standing output

voltages for amplifiers and speaker input. Record this data.

11. Attach mulitmeter to #1 ampHfier output.

a. Adjust #1 sensitivity control to 1.5 V.

b. Adjust #1 volume control until approximately 20 V are attained.

c. Follow above procedure for remaining amplifier output adjustments.

d. Recheck all outputs, 1 through 4. Readjust where necessary to achieve 20 V.

e. Attach test speaker for audio output from each speaker transformer.

12. Remove test equipment, restore to operation.

13. Check communications console for proper supervision.

Smoke Detection System for Observation Deck

The smoke detection system for the observation deck of WTC 2 is to be annually inspected, as a whole, in the following manner:

Fire Damper and Fire Door Bypass

Before carrying out any servicing and testing, perfomi the following:

1 . Bypass the fire dampers by placing the Fire Damper Bypass Switch in the ON position.

2. Bypass the rollup fire doors by placing the Rollup Fire Door Bypass Switch in the ON

position.

Control Panels

Service the control panels annually as described below:

1 . Discormect power to the control panels.

2. Clean and inspect the control panels. Tighten connections. Check for unusual conditions.

3. Reenergize the control panels.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 31
Chapter 5

Supervisory Circuits

1 . Check the supervisory circuit of the AC power supply to the control panels as follows:

, - a. Disconnect power supply to the panels.

b. Check for proper trouble alann indication at the Computer-Multiplex Console in the

Security Room.

2. Check the supervisory circuit of the DC power supply to the smoke detectors and alarni and

trouble bells by disconnecting the power supply to the smoke detectors and smoke alarni and

trouble bells.

3. Check for trouble alarm indication at the Computer-Multiplex Console in the Security Room.

Manual Fire Alarm Stations >

'

Check the electrical and mechanical functioning of each station as follows:

1. Operate the station.

Note: If the station cannot be operated, there is a mechanical problem and it should be

corrected.

2. Check for proper alann indication at the Smoke Detection Control Panel on floor 107. Note:

If the station is mechanically sound, the electrical circuit is healthy, and there is no proper

alarm indication at the Smoke Detection Control Panel on floor 1 07, there is a problem with

the electrical contact in the manual station and it should be corrected.

3. Check for proper smoke alann indication at the Computer-Multiplex Console in the Security

Room.

Ceiling Smoke Detectors

For each Ceiling Smoke Detector, perfonn the following tests annually and record results.

1 . Locate the smoke detector and remove the detector head. Check for proper alann indication

at the Computer-Multiplex Console after the head is removed. Replace the detector head.

2. Activate the detector using a sensitivity tester' and record the reading in the log book. Check

for proper alarm indication at the Computer-Multiplex Console in the Security Room.

3. Remove the detector head and clean it if necessary. Check for proper alann indication at the Computer-Multiplex Console. Replace the detector head.

The sensitivity tester referenced is Model NKT-24, Products of Combustion Detector Tester. The instruction manual is provided in Appendix D of Manual #12

32 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Operation and Maintenance Manuals

4. Activate the detector using a sensitivity tester and record the second reading in the log book.

5. Check for the proper alarm indication at the Computer-Multiplex Console in the Security

Room.

Duct Smoke Detectors

For each duct smoke detector, perform the following tests annually:

1. Clean the air sampling tubes of the detector, to insure that the unit receives a proper air sample.

2. Activate the detector using a sensitivity tester when the fan is not running (Static Condition)

and record the reading in the log book. Check for proper alarm indication at the ComputerMultiplex Console.

3. Activate the detector using a sensitivity tester when the fan is running (Dynamic Condition)

and record the reading in the log book. Measure the air velocity across the air sampling tubes

and record it in the log book. Check for proper operation of the fan shutdown controls when

the fan is running. Check for proper alarm indication at the Computer-Multiplex Console.

After completing the servicing and testing, perform the following:

1. Place the Fire Damper Bypass Switch in the OFF position. Now the fire dampers are in the Smoke Detection System.

2. Place the Rollup Fire Door Bypass Switch in the OFF position. Now the fire doors are in the Smoke Detection System.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 5

1

This page intentionally left blank.

34 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 6

Port Authority Facility Condition Survey Program

Various reports from the 1 990s for the Port Authority Facility Condition Survey Program have been

located. The precise guidelines for these programs are unknown; however, extracting from the introductions and executive suminaries of the available reports reveals some of the procedures for inspecting building features. The program focuses more toward architectural and structural aspects,

although fire protection features are mentioned.

6.1 GENERAL

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey contracted engineering firms to perfomi detailed

inspections of building conditions. Inspection procedures varied by task. Visual inspections, material

sampling, reviewing maintenance records, and walk-through inspections were perfonned. Photographs were taken and reports were generated with recommendations and, at times, guidelines for repair/replacement.

6.2 FIREPROOFING

The World Trade Center (WTC) Tower "B" report (PANYNJ 1990) includes inspection procedures

relating to the fireproofmg removal. Inspections were perfonned by removing the fireproofmg from the

steel floor framing and examining it for delamination and underlying corrosion. The fireproofmg was

replaced at the conclusion of the inspection by the WTC Department's structural contractor. Roughly

4 percent of the floor framing trusses and 3 percent of the exterior column spandrel plate splices were

inspected on designated office area floors determined before the inspection (30 floors total). All four

two-story Mechanical Equipment Rooms and selected core coluirtns and elevator shafts were also inspected. The fireproofmg was replaced after the inspections. No guidelines for repair were given.

The WTC Tower A report (PANYNJ 1991) followed very similar procedures as Tower B.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 35
Chapter 6

This page intentionally left blank.

36 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 7

Structural Integrity Testing and Inspection Program

In March 1986, the Infrastructure Engineering Design Division, Engineering Department of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ or Port Authority) produced Standards for Structural

Integrity Inspection ofthe World Trade Center Towers A and B. These standards, created by Leslie E. Roberson Associates (LERA), were designed to assist PANYNJ in the evaluation of the on-going

structural integrity of World Trade Center (WTC) 1 and WTC 2. The bulk of this program will be

addressed in other structural reports of Project 1 . However, there is some infonnation that is valuable to the purpose of this section.

As LERA perfonned Structural Integrity Inspections, reports were generated with recommendations and

procedures for enhancing and repairing damaged materials. Included in some reports were procedures for repairing fireproofing. The following section summarizes the fireproofing repair procedures.

7.1 fireproofing

Appendix D of Structural Integrity Inspection reports PII33903 and PII73902 established procedures for repairing spray- and trowel-applied fireproofing as follows:

Where practical, identify brand and type of fireproofing initially used (largely CAFCO BLAZE-SHIELD

by Isolatek and Grace Monokote in WTC 1 and WTC 2).

As recommended by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL), repair "in kind."

• Where Isolatek fireproofing products are identified:

- If area is less than 3 ft", prepare surfaces and trowel on CAFCO FIBER-PATCH (by

Isolatek) or equivalent per manufacturer's specification. - For areas greater than 3 ft', one of the following procedures may be used:

a. Prepare surfaces and spray on new BLAZE-SHIELD (by Isolatek) or equivalent per

manufacturer's specifications; or

b. Patch with CAFCO FIBER-PATCH (Type P) according to the following: "When the area to be patched is within 1 in. of the flange tip of the steel section, additional

material would have to be removed prior to the application of the patching material to insure a proper key. The material to be removed would incorporate the material on

the inner face of the flange up to the interface of the material on the web, the flange

tips, and at least Vi the width of the outer flange face."'

' UL letter dated January 20, 1 997.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 37
Chapter 7

• Where Grace fireproofing products are identified:

- If area is less than 1 ft', prepare surfaces and trowel patch fireproofing with Monokote

Z- 106 or Monokote Z-146 (by Grace) or equivalent per manufacturer's specifications. - For areas greater than 1 ft", one of the following procedures may be used:

a. Prepare surfaces and spray applied fireproofing with Monokote Z-106 or Monokote

Z-146 (by Grace) or equivalent per manufacturer's specifications; or

b. Prepare surfaces, "the Type Z-106 spray applied fire resistive material shall be mixed

and sprayed to the appropriate density into a suitable container, then troweled at the required thickness to beams and columns, which have been wrapped following the contour with minimum 1.7 lb/yd" expanded metal lath. It should be understood that the thickness shall be measured to the face of the lath."" Key new material into the material surrounding the repair in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.

The integrity of the surrounding material is not to be impaired.

The thickness of repair material shall provide the same fire rating as material initially used.

* UL letter dated July 24, 1997.

38 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 8

Tenants Manual

The World Trade Center Tenants Manual was developed in 1 984 to provide useful infonnation to World

Trade Center (WTC) tenants including, among other things, functions of the Operations Division, tenant

alteration procedures, fire safety information, and rules and regulations.

8.1 GENERAL

The Operations Division was capable of providing an array of services to the tenants of WTC through the

Structural, Tenant Services, Operations, Mechanical, and Electrical sections. Tenants desiring to make

alterations could hire the Operations Division to perform alterations without having to receive approval

from the WTC Planning Division or hire an outside contractor and go through the review process of the WTC Planning Division.

A Design Guide within the WTC Tenant Manual contains basic infomiation for the tenant's architect/engineer that would be designing the tenant space. Within the Design Guide, the Port Authority

of New York and New Jersey (Port Authority) committed to provide the tenant's architect/engineer with

the necessary WTC drawings and building standard information in the possession of the Port Authority.

If the alteration involved other than building standard requirements, the tenant was directed to work with one or more of the WTC consultant engineering finns listed in Table 8-1 below. If the required

information could not be provided from the consultants, additional infonnation would be supplied from

the WTC Planning Representative. Also, if the need arose to alter fire protection features, the fire protection drawings had to be reviewed and approved by the Port Authority and Employers Group of

Insurance Companies.

Table 8-1. WTC consultants, as of 1984.

Mechanical Jaros, Baum & Bolles

Electrical and Structural Joseph R. Loring & Associates

Structural Skilling, Helle, Christiansen, &

Robertson

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 39
Chapter 8

This page intentionally left blank.

40 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 9

Other Documents

There are many other documents that contain procedures for modifying fire protection systems. As part

of each tenant alteration, specifications were created to estabHsh minimum requirements as required by

codes. There were Hterally hundreds of tenant aUerations perfomied in World Trade Center (WTC) 1, 2, and 7. Summaries of the alterations on the affected floors of WTC 1 and WTC 2 and all of the alterations

in WTC 7 are summarized in a separate section and will not be discussed here. However, an important

specification regarding the installation of the fireproofing material is summarized below. These

specifications were not directly established as part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

(PANYNJ) guidelines, but were used in the upgrading/enhancement of the WTC buildings.

9.1 FIREPROOFING

As part of an effort to replace fireproofing for column and beam surfaces exposed within the elevator

shafts of WTC 1 , specifications for this work were created under Division 7 - Fireproofing. The

specification is separated into two sections: 7A - Spray-on Replacement Fireproofing, and 7B - Testing

and Inspection of Spray-on Fireproofing (PANYNJ 1993c, 1993d). Highlights of the specification

include:

Submittals

The manufacturer's instructions for proper application were required to be submitted. Independent

laboratory test results with the indicated perforaiance criteria were also required to be submitted.

Performance Criteria

The fireproofing thickness was intended to provide for a minimum fire resistance rating of 2 h for beams

(restrained) and 3 h for columns. The specified product was W.R. Grace and Co. Type 106. Other

products could be used if approved by the Engineer.

• Bond strength per ASTM International (ASTM) E736 - Standard Test Method for Cohesion/Adhesion of Sprayed Fire-Resistive Materials Applied to Structural members.

• Compressive strength per ASTM E76 1 - Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of

Sprayed Fire-Resistive Materials Applied to Structural Members.

• Air erosion per ASTM E859 - Standard Test Method for Air Erosion of Sprayed Fire- Resistive Materials Applied to Structural Members.

• Corrosion resistance per ASTM E937 - Standard Test Method for Corrosion of Sprayed Fire- Resistive Materials Applied to Structural Members

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 41
Chapter 9

• Minimum density per ASTM E605 - Standard Test Methods for Thickness and Density of

Sprayed Fire-Resistive Materials Applied to Structural Members.

Testing and Inspection

All of the tests and inspections were perfomied by the PANYNJ Materials Division, but the responsibility

of the approval was left with the Engineer. The tests and inspections were outlined as follows:

1 . Inspect conditions of substrate daily, before application, for proper preparation of steel. Steel

shall be free of dirt, grease, release agents, loose scale, extensive rust and loose paint (primer)

which will prevent adhesion. Report areas not in compliance immediately for remedial

action.

2. Test replacement fireproofmg for density and thickness in accordance with ASTM E736.

3. Inspect and note whether or not corrective measures, including patching, have been properly

carried out in all areas in need of re-spraying and patching, including areas where sprayed-on

fire protection has been deliberately removed for testing, or has been damaged in any way.

4. Inspect replacement fireproofmg for cracks. Replacement material shall not show any visual

sign of cracking upon drying and curing.

5. All testing shall be based upon random samples and shall be the responsibility of the PANYNJ Materials Division.

42 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 10

References

Frank, Walter M. 1995. Transmittal of Letter Agreement - NYC Department of Buildings. Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. October 16.

Goldstein, William H. 1995. Letter agreement for a change to the Supplement to the basic Memorandum

of Understanding between the NYC Department of Buildings and the Port Authority of New York

and New Jersey. New York City Department of Buildings. September 15.

LERA. Date unknown. Appendix D, Fire Protection Repair Procedures. (Part of Structural Integrity

Inspection Report #PII33903). Date unknown.

LERA. 1990. Structural Integrity Testing and Inspection Programfor The World Trade Center. January 12.

LERA. 1999. Appendix D, Fire Protection Repair Procedures. (Part of Structural Integrity Inspection

Report #PII73902). May.

PANYNJ. 1981. World Trade Center Instruction Manual No. 12, Operation and Maintenance ofSmoke

Detection System Observation Deck, Tower B. Engineering Department. August.

PANYNJ. 1 98 1 . World Trade Center Instruction Manual No. 13. Operation and Maintenance ofHalon

Fire Protection System Computer Center, WTC. Engineering Department. December.

PANYNJ. 1986. Standards for Structural Integrity Inspection ofthe World Trade Center Towers A and

B. Engineering Department. March.

PANYNJ. 1 986. World Trade Center Instruction Manual No. 23, Operation and Maintenance ofFire

Protection System. Engineering Department. February.

PANYNJ. 1987. Memorandum: Elevator Handicapped Modifications. September 14.

PANYNJ. 1987. World Trade Center Instruction Manual No. 18, Operation and Maintenance Fire

Sprinkler Systems. Engineering Department. April.

PANYNJ. 1 990. Port Authority Facility Condition Swvey Program: World Trade Center Tower B. Engineering Department. April.

PANYNJ. 1991. Memorandum: American with Disability Act of 1 990 - Tenant Construction.

August 27.

PANYNJ. 1 99 1 . Port Authority Facility Condition Survey Program: World Trade Center Tower A

Structure Elements. Engineering Department. October.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 43
Chapter 10

PANYNJ. 1 993a. Memorandum of Understanding BetM'een the New York City Department ofBuildings

and the Port Authority ofNew York and New Jersey. November.

PANYNJ. 1 993b. Memorandum of Understanding Between the Fire Department ofthe City ofNew York

and the Port Authority ofNew York and New Jersey. December 30.

PANYNJ. 1993c. Division 7 — Fireproofmg, Section 7A, Spray-on Replacement Fireproofwg.

February 10.

PANYNJ. 1993d. Division 7 - Fireproofwg, Section 7B, Testing and Inspection ofSpray-on

Fireproofng. February 10.

PANYNJ. 1995. First Amendment to Memorandum of Understanding Between the Fire Department of

the City ofNew York and the Port Authorit}' ofNew York and New Jersey.

PANYNJ. 1 995. Supplement to Memorandum of Understanding Between the New York City Department

ofBuildings and the Port Authority ofNew York and New Jersey. 1995.

PANYNJ. 1 996. World Trade Center Retail Tenant Design Criteria. July.

PANYNJ. 1997. Port Authority Facilit}' Condition Sun'ey Program: 7 World Trade Center. Engineering

Department. April.

PANYNJ. 1997. Tenant Construction Review Manual. Engineering Department. March.

PANYNJ. 1997. World Trade Center Electrical Design Guidelines, Specifcations and Standard Details.

November 25.

PANYNJ. 1998. World Trade Center Architectural and Structural Design Guidelines, Specifications

and Standard Details. February 27.

PANYNJ. 1998. World Trade Center HVAC, Fire Protection, Plumbing Design Guidelines,

Specifications and Standard Details. May 11.

PANYNJ. 1999. World Trade Center Mandated Fire Alarm Guidelines. March.

Stempler, Steven H. 1984. W^or/c/ Trat/e Teoon/^ Mo^wa/. World Trade Operations Division.

44 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Section II

Post-Construction Fire Protection

and Life Safety IVIodifications to

the World Trade Center Towers
This page intentionally left blank.
Executive Summary

As part of the analysis of building and fire codes and standards of the National Institute of Standards and

Technology (NIST) World Trade Center (WTC) Investigation, this report supports the effort to document

and analyze the performance of the fire protection and hfe safety systems of WTC 1 and WTC 2. The

performance of the fire protection and life safety systems is ultimately affected by the changes made to the systems. The purpose of this section is to identify the repairs and/or modifications made to the fire protection and life safety systems on the affected floors of WTC 1 and WTC 2. Various programs were

established to accomplish the modifications to the fire protection and life safety systems. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) installed the backbones of the systems and required

devices in the public spaces. The building tenants would then modify/extend the systems into the leased

spaces. The following is a list of programs in progress or completed as of September 1 1, 2001

:

• Corridor and tenant wall extension. This program was intended to extend the walls to the underside of the floor slab above giving the tenant the option of compartmentalizing or

sprinklering the leased space to meet code requirements.

• Sprinkler and standpipe installation. This program was initiated in the 1980s and was near completion in 2001. This program was initiated in response to Local Law 5.

• Fire alarm system installation. The fire alarm system was undergoing a major renovation at the time of the attacks. Soon after the 1993 bombing of the WTC, plans were initiated to

install a new fire alarm system. Standpipe telephone jacks, smoke detectors, manual fire alarm pull boxes, loud speakers with voice communication capabilities, fire command

stations, fire warden stations and strobes were installed throughout. For a more detailed

description of the fire alarni system upgrade, refer to the NIST Investigation Project 4 reports.

• Re-fireproofwg. This program was intended to provide the appropriate thickness of

fireproofing materials to achieve a 2 h fire rating on the floors and 3 h on columns throughout

the buildings.

• Passenger elevator modernization. This program was initiated because the equipment

became obsolete. As part of the modernization project, firemen's recall funcdons were

installed.

• Freight elevator signage installation. Appropriate signage was provided throughout the buildings as part of this program.

• Emergency lighting and exit sign enhancement. Emergency lights with battery packs were

provided in stairs and elevators. The emergency lights were also connected to emergency

circuits. Exit signs were upgraded with modem LED illuminated signs.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 47
Executive Summary

Other programs that were being developed but not yet implemented included:

• Correction of mechanical rooms exiting into the fire stairs. ,

• Identifying floors that have inadequate fire hose reach.

• Replacement of lobby carpeting not meeting the test requirements of the Building Code of the City of New York (BCNYC).

• Installation of fire stopping at duct/pipe penetrations.

'

• Installation of smoke dampers on the discharge side of all air-conditioning systems over

15,000 cfm.

Tenant alteration projects continuously modified the fire protection and life safety systems. As tenants moved in and out, new conditions (such as wall layouts and occupancy use) warranted a need for change.

These changes within the tenant spaces mandated the need to modify the sprinkler system, fire alarm

system, heating ventilating, and air conditioning system, emergency lighting and exit signs to fulfill PANYNJ and the BCNYC requirements. Tables 3-1 and 3-2 in Chapter 3 of this report hst the tenant

alterations perfonned on the affected floors of WTC 1 and WTC 2.

48 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 11

Introduction

Over the life of the World Trade Center (WTC) 1 and WTC 2, enhancements to the fire protection and

life safety systems were made. Tenant alterations, fires, revised building code provisions, and new

technology all contributed to the reasons for enhancing the systems. Changes made to the fire protection

and Hfe safety systems ultimately affected the building performance. Thus, in order to analyze the performance of the buildings in response to the September 11, 2001 , attacks, it is crucial to have the most

up-to-date knowledge of the systems installed. The purpose of this section is to identify the repairs and/or

modifications made to the fire protection and life safety systems on the affected floors of WTC 1 and

WTC 2. The affected floors, for the purpose of this report, are the 94th through the 98th floors for WTC 1 and the 78th through the 84th floors for WTC 2.

As the building code provisions were updated, new tenants moved in and out, and technology advanced,

the fire protection and life safety systems were modified. Modifications were accomplished through

many short-term and long-temi projects of varying magnitudes and objectives. Some modifications were

the direct responsibility of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) while other

modifications were the responsibility of the tenant. The PANYNJ modified the common areas within the building (e.g., public corridors, stairways, utility closets, etc.) and installed the backbones of the fire protection and life safety systems. The building tenants, in turn, updated the leased spaces by

modifying/extending the fire protection and life safety systems to accommodate the building code and

mission continuity requirements within the tenant space. The base building modifications to the affected

floors are summarized in Chapter 2, with tenant modifications of WTC 1 and WTC 2 summarized in Chapter 3.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 49
Chapter 1

1

This page intentionally left blank.

50 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 12

Base Building Modifications to Affected Floors

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) and various consultants continuously

evaluated the condition of the multiple fire protection and life safety systems throughout the World Trade

Center (WTC) complex. Improvement programs were established to provide a basis for the preservation,

repair and retrofit of the various systems. This chapter summarizes the base building fire protection and

life safety programs developed for WTC 1 and WTC 2. Programs that were well under way or completed

at the time of the September 11, 2001, attacks are listed in Sec. 2.1. Programs that were being developed

or still in the design process are listed in Sec. 2.2.

12.1 MODIFICATION PROGRAMS IN PROGRESS OR COMPLETED AS OF

SEPTEMBER 11, 2001

A corridor wall and tenant separation program was in place to extend the walls to the underside of the

floor slab above to minimize smoke spread, meet code requirements and give tenants the choice of

compartmentalizing or sprinklering the tenant space. The wall extension project was a long-tenn program

that was incorporated in new tenant alterations. Tenants were reimbursed by the PANYNJ as the work

was performed (PANYNJ 1999). The necessity to complete the wall extension program was in question

because of the sprinklerization program that was later developed (Merritt and Harris 2000a, 2000b).

In the 1980s and in order to comply with Local Law 5, the complete sprinklerization of WTC 1 and

WTC 2 was initiated. Exact details on how this retrofit process was accomplished have not been

completely identified. Documentation indicates that the core area mail and storage rooms, the fire standpipe and drain risers were initially installed to provide future extension of the sprinkler system as tenants moved in and out (Appendix A). In 2000, it was reported that the office floors of WTC 1 and

WTC 2 were fully sprinklered with the exception of the electrical and telephone closets, most toilet rooms, the main lobby and the B-6 Level Mechanical Equipment Room (MER). A standpipe riser with a

fire hose rack on each floor was installed in each stairway (Merritt and Harris 2000). Various fire pumps

and water tanks were installed throughout the buildings to supply the appropriate water demand. Further

tenant modifications to the sprinkler system are listed in Chapters 3 and 4 of this report.

The base building fire alarm system was modified numerous times affecting various components of the system; see Table 12-1 for a listing of PANYNJ contracts. Pennanent standpipe telephone jacks were

installed and activated on each floor of all fire stairways (PANYNJ 1999). A program to install return air smoke detectors and return air smoke detector annunciation requirements was in place and scheduled to be completed by the end of 2000 (PANYNJ 1999). Upon completion of the return air smoke detector

program, a program to comply with elevator lobby smoke detector requirements was to be initiated (PANYNJ 1999). Further reports indicate that elevator lobbies were installed with smoke detectors. Manual fire alann boxes were installed on all floors so that travel distance to a fire alarm box was less than 200 ft (PANYNJ 1999). Loud speakers were installed in public corridors (PANWJ 1999). The

voice communication system was extended from the core corridors to the office areas. Fire command

stations were installed in the lobbies of WTC 1 and WTC 2 (PANYNJ 1999). Soon after the 1993

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 51
Chapter 12

bombing, plans were made to install a new Style 7 fire alarm system throughout the WTC complex. The new system was designed to completely replace the existing system using a three-phase process.

Table 12-1. Contracts involved with the fire alarm upgrades.

Contract Description

\\7X/^ A no 1 0 Tower MER Sprinkler Installation and Modification to Smoke Detection

System

WTC-857.090 WTC - Towers 1 and 2 Skylobbies Sprinklerization and Fire Alarm Upgrade

WTC-861.077 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III WTC-86 1.082 Fire Alarm System Phase III XL3 Conversion

WTC-861.089 Fire Command Center WTC-86 1.101 Fire Alarm System Phase 3 Device Upgrade 1 and 2 WTC MER

WTC-86 1.1 71 Fire Alann System Phase 3 4 WTC MER's, EMR's and Substations WTC-861.174 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 2 WTC Contract #1

WTC-86]. 175 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 1 WTC Contract #2

WTC-86 1.1 76 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 1 WTC Contract #3

WTC-861.176 (SA#1) Fire Alarm System Phase III Device Upgrade

WTC-86 1.1 77 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 1 WTC Contract #4

WTC-861.270 Fire Alami System Device Upgrade Phase III 2 WTC Contract #1

WTC-861.271 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 2 WTC Contract #2

WTC-861.272 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 2 WTC Contract #3

WTC-861.273 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 2 WTC Contract #4

WTC-861.274 Fire Alarm System Device Upgrade Phase III 2 WTC Contract #5

WTC-86 1.474B Fire Alann System Subgrade Levels Backbone Modification

WTC-W2-987.107 Smoke Detection System Emergency Generator Room

Key: EMR, ?'.'''.

The program started in 1993 and was still being worked on in 2001 with phases one and two complete.

By September 11, 2001, WTC 1 was approximately 85 percent complete and WTC 2 was approximately

80 percent complete, with an overall project completion of approximately 75 percent. The upgrade of the

fire alarm system was estimated to cost S69 million dollars. It was estimated that 25 percent of the

original fire alarm system was still in service at the time of the attack (PACO 2002). In addition to the base building fire alarm system, tenants installed or extended the fire alarm system within the tenant spaces as necessary. Further tenant modifications of the fire alarm system are given in Chapters 3 and 4

of this report. More specific details of the upgrade and final system capabilities are identified in reports

for Project 4, Active Fire Alarm Systems, of the National Institute of Standards and Technology

Investigation. A general list of system upgrades are as follows:

• The existing American Multiplex system was replaced with a decentralized system that included six independent fire alarm sub-systems. Each of the six sub-systems was linked to a Network Command Center located in the Fire Command Station at the lobby of each of four

WTC buildings (WTCl, WTC 2, WTC 4, WTC 5) with backup centers throughout the WTC.

52 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Base Building Modifications to Affected Floors

• Wall mounted strobes and ceiling mounted speakers were installed in all corridors,

bathrooms, common areas and all occupied tenant spaces.

• Addressable area smoke detectors were installed in all base building electrical and telephone

closets, mechanical rooms, elevator machine rooms and in elevator lobbies for elevator recall. Duct mounted smoke detectors and area detectors were installed in front of the return/supply

air grills for fan shut down.

• Manual fire alarm boxes were installed next to each stairway and in the main exits in the

main lobbies.

• All existing sprinkler tamper and flow switches were connected via interface modules.

• All tenant proprietary fire alarm panels were connected to the fire alarm system via interface modules to transmit an alarm or trouble.

• A floor warden station was installed on every floor to establish two-way communication

between each floor and the Fire Command Station. A stairway standpipe fireline telephone

jack was installed for the Fire Department.

An ongoing re-fireproofing program was under way to install an appropriate thickness to achieve a 2 h

rating on floors as tenants vacated a space (PANYNJ 1999; DPV 2002; Merritt and Harris 2000a, 2000b).

As of 2000, approximately 30 floors of WTC 1 and WTC 2 were completed (Merritt and Harris 2000a,

2000b).

In 2000, a program to modernize all passenger elevator cabs with new interior finishes, overlay

controllers, the Americans with Disabilities Act features and firemen's recall was completed. Phase two

of the modernization program included retrofitting door operators and installing new door re-opening

devices. The project was initiated because equipment became obsolete. As of 2000, 126 elevators were

completed, 8 in progress and 104 not yet modernized (Merritt and Harris 2000a, 2000b). Additionally,

the Merritt and Harris reports indicate venting of the elevator shafts in WTC 1 and WTC 2 was

accomplished through the elevator machine rooms due to the configuration of the elevators in the central

core. This arrangement is not permitted by American Society for Mechanical Engineers A 17.1 but was

accepted by PANYNJ as the only viable solution (Merritt and Harris 2000a, 2000b).

In 1999, freight elevator signage was installed throughout WTC 1 and WTC 2. The enhancement was

performed under the PANYNJ job number WPM-6424.

The emergency lighting and exit signs were upgraded subsequent to the 1 993 bombing. The emergency

lighting system was modified by providing fixtures with battery packs in the stairs and connecting the

lights to emergency circuits. All elevators were provided with emergency lighting with 2 h battery packs

with selected fixtures connected to emergency circuits. The initial exit signs, which were illuminated

with fluorescent lamps, were replaced with modem LED illuminated exit signs. The program was accompUshed from 1997 to 2000 (PACO 2002; Merritt and Harris 2000a, 2000b).

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 53
Chapter 12

12.2 MODIFICATION PROGRAMS IN DEVELOPMENT

In addition to the modification programs mentioned in Sec. 2.1 above, many other modification programs

were planned. The following is a list of programs that were in the process of implementation as of

September 11,2001:

• Correct the configuration that has mechanical rooms exiting into fire stairs (PANYNJ 1999).

• Identify floors that have inadequate fire hose reach (PANYNJ 1999).

• Replacement of the carpeting in lobbies which do not meet the test requirements of the Building Code of the City of New York (PANYNJ 1 999).

• Installation of fire stopping at duct/pipe penetrations (PANYNJ 1999).

• Installation of smoke dampers in the discharge of all air-conditioning systems over

15,000 cfm (PANYNJ 1999).

54 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 13

Tenant Modifications to Affected Floors

Tenant alteration projects also modified the fire protection and life safety systems within World Trade

Center (WTC) 1 and WTC 2. Tenant spaces were modified to accommodate new floor layouts as tenants moved in and out. New wall layouts, changed occupancy use, and mission continuity objectives in tenant spaces introduced different code requirements.

Generally speaking, the tenant alterations performed in WTC 1 and WTC 2 included typical business

occupancy modifications to the primary fire protection and life safety systems. A typical office alteration included rearranging walls to accommodate the desired layout of the tenant while maintaining proper fire separations and divisions from other tenants within the building. Fire and/or smoke dampers were

installed in the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems at penetrations of fire rated walls. The

base building wet pipe sprinkler system was modified by the addition of sprinkler heads and branchlines

in the tenant space, which was required by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 13 and the Building Code of the City of New York (BCNYC). Hydraulic calculations were performed to justify the

pipe sizes of the branchlines as necessary. Documentation indicates that calculations were conducted

back to the floor control valve assembly of each floor where system pressures were previously known.

Fire alarm and voice communication systems were installed within each tenant space as required by

NFPA 72 and the BCNYC. Each tenant fire alarm and voice communication system was designed to be

connected to the base building system where signals could be reported at the Fire Command Station of

each building. Providing exit and emergency lighting within the tenant space, which is required by the BCNYC, was also included in the tenant alteration project. All of the system modifications were

submitted to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) for approval or were approved

using the self-certification process established by the PANYNJ. PANYNJ Tenant Construction Review

Manuals were used for establishing minimum design criteria and design details.

Tables 13-1 and 13-2 list the tenant aherations that were performed on the affected floors of WTC 1 and

WTC 2. Any variances from the typical office modification are noted.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H. WTC Investigation 55
Chapter 13

13.1 WTC 1 TENANT ALTERATIONS ON AFFECTED FLOORS (78-84)

Table 13-1. Summary of WTC 1 tenant modifications within affected floors.

TAA# Floor(s)

Location on floor Year Tenant Systems Modified

W98-1199 94 North 1998 Guy Carpenter Typical

W98-1197 94 South 1998 Marsh and McLennan Typical

W-91093 94 Core 1991 Deloitte and Touche Add sprinkler in electrical closet W-4146 95 Southeast 1988 Sumitomo Bank, Ltd. Typical

W-4183 95 Northwest 1988 Sumitomo Bank, Ltd. Typical

WOO-1135 95 North 2000 Marsh and McLennan Typical, new pre-action sprinkler

system

W98-1151 95-98 Entire

floor

1998 PANYNJ Demolition of floor, fire alarm

system to remain operable,

sprinklers to be removed

W98-1197 95-98 Entire

floor

1998 Marsh and McLennan Typical, new pre-action sprinkler

systems and additional stairs

W-4112 97 North 1988 Deloitte Haskins and Sells Typical

W-4412 97 Entire 1989 Deloitte Haskins and Sells Demolition of floor, sprinkler and

fire alarm system to remain

operable

W-4417 97 Entire 1990 Deloitte Haskins and Sells Typical

Key: TAA, Tenant Alteration Application.

56 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Tenant Modifications to Affected Floors

13.2 WTC 2 TENANT ALTERATIONS ON AFFECTED FLOORS (94-98)

Table 13-2. Summary of WTC 2 tenant modifications within affected floors.

TAA# Floor(s)

Location on floor Year Tenant Systems Modified

W-4415 78 Unknown 1989 Fuji Bank Typical

W97-2208 78 North 1997 Sky Markets Egress analysis

W96-2192 78 Unknown 1997 First Commercial Bank Typical

WX-0137 78 Core,

Southwest

1998 PANYNJ Typical

WC98-2133 78 Southeast 1998 Georgeson and Co., Inc. Typical, including escalator to 77th floor WPM-6417 78 Core 1999 Fuji Bank Typical

vv yy-t1/ o I1 QQQ yyy Rfi Cf^l in *^ T\/T^i r*^ 1 1 yuiLal

wni vvui -1 1

i I jy 78/ o ISJnrtVi IN Ul 111 ralllal UClliUllllUll Ul liUUi, sprinklers to be removed

W99-2125 80 East 1999 Fuji Bank Typical

WOl-2149 80 Unknown 2001 Fuji Bank Typical

W-4623 80, 81

Northeast,

Southwest

1990,

1990

Fuji Bank Typical

W97-2175 82 Southeast 1997 Fuji Bank Typical

W97-2112 83 Unknown 1997 AON Unknown

W99-2197 83 West 1999 IQ Financial Systems Typical

W99-2185 83 Southeast 1999 The Chuo Trust and

Banking Co.

Typical

W94-2117 84 West 1994 Euro Brokers Typical

Key: TAA, Tenant Alteration Application.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 57
Chapter 13

This page intentionally left blank.

58 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Chapter 14

References

DPV. 2002. William and Connolly, personal communication to file, World Trade Center Fire Protection

System. July 15.

McAllister, T., ed. 2002. World Trade Center Building Performance Study: Data Collection,

Preliminaiy Observations, and Recommendations. FE1VIA403. Federal Emergency Management

Agency. Washington, DC, May.

Merrit and Harris, Inc. 2000a. Property Condition Assessment of World Trade Center Portfolio, One

World Trade Center. New York, NY, December 6.

Merrit and Harris, Inc. 2000b. Property Condition Assessment of World Trade Center Portfolio, Two

World Trade Center. New York, NY, December 6. PACO Group, Inc and Flack and Kurtz, Inc. 2002. General Description of All Building Systems and the Capital Program. January 14.

PANYNJ (The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey). 1999. World Trade Center - Code

Compliance Evaluation. New York, NY, October 15.

Rivera, CM. 1993. Fire and Building Codes and the Jurisdiction and Compliance of Federal, State Authorities and Foreign Government Buildings. The City of New York Fire Department. New York,

NY, March 25.

Silverstein Properties. World Trade Center Property Risk Report. New York, NY.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 59
Chapter 14

This page intentionally left blank.

60 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Appendix A

Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the

World Trade Center

This report is reproduced with permission of The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Appendix A

This page intentionally left blank.

62 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

REPORT ON FIRE SAFETY OF

THE WORl.D TRADE CENTER

Con bents Page Part I - RofHjrf on Firr- .,f F«-ijriinry 13, 1975 1 - 10 Part II - Evaluation of I,if" Sa^" >' y n _ 19

January 1976

Reproduced with permission of The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 63
Appendix A

Report on l ire 5;n fety at

•rhe Worl'T ' ra'lp Center

* * *

Abr, t t act

It has always been tlie Port Authority's intention to comply with

Tx)cal l.aw 5 since it is our general policy to voluntarily comply with

local building codes and in many cases to far exceed the specified requireinerri ?^ of same. A case in point is the World Trade Center project. Before

f-ii.T-t moiih of Local Law 5 in 1973, iii.> Port Authority staff and its hi-rise

1 ( >M5:ii 1 1 ara R fif'i'1if»d the 'Ip'^iqn >il -^i r uf-furef: for life safety provisions and

t lip following features were i ti. )r f >r t f in the design and installed in the

Worlil Trade renter complex which 'v«>ro t.ver and above existing code requirempnts at the time:

0 Smoke dpt^M tor?^ on eacli floor at return air ilurts0 Elevators r^lvirn to qround floor for

fireman readiness.

0 Fire alarm boxes on each floor with

voice communication.

0 Public addres-* system in corridors.

0 Smoke purge configuration for airconditioning system.

0 Fire director's unit central control console.

* * *

During the period of design, which began in 1967, the Port Authority

worked closely with the New York City Fire Department on the development of

these features as well as familiarization of the Fire Department with the

64 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

n -

building systems and access. In 1<^70, the Port Authority further cooperated

with the Fire Department by making the 30 Church Street building available,

immediately prior to its demolition, for the Fire Department and its consultant to conduct controlled fire tests and evaluate the principle of stair

pressurization to provide safe eqross from a fire floor. Pzurtially, as a

result of these actual fire test conditions of stair pressurization, requirements for such a pressurization system were included in one of the options of

Local Law 5.

Af^er the World Trado r«intnr fire last spring. Dr. Ronan appointed

a Commissioners' Fire '"ommlttoe liended by Commissioner George Berlinger,

niid including Commisf; i oners Axtell. '".ilbf-rt and Hellmuth. This committee

dirf^f.ted Tort Authority st.ifT to U-'-rougMy review all aspects of the World

Prddc Center fire and the life safety provisions of the structures, including

tliG conforming of the complex ta the provisions of Local Law 5. The latter

provides for the sele<:tion of ei th<*i a Cf>n5>artmentation option or a sprinkler

option. The committee further ret lined nn independent consultant to review

the World Trade Center life safety i)Tovisions.

The consultant conclndod that the existing structural fire retcirdants

of tlie building are sufficient to make the probability of serious structural

damage extremely remote and th-it tho degree of vertical con5>artmentation

provided sufficiently limits the spread of fire in the structures, but that

the spread of smoke requires attention from a life safety standpoint.

The consultant further concluded that..*

"The result;s of these comparative analyses indicated

that, in our opinion, either of the two fire protection

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 65
Appendix A

options provided For under Local Law 5 would provide a

good level of occupant life safety within the World

Trade Center complex, provided tfiat whichever is selected

is supplemented by certain additional measures."

The additional provisions reconunended by the consultant over and

above the compartmentation option are summarized as follows:

1) Sprinklering of all rooms in the central corridor area

which could contribute excessive quantities of smoke to

the corridor systems;

2) Doors which are normally kept open to the corridor system

should be equipped with pI ectro-maqnetic "hold-open"

devices which would i-c activated to close the doors;

3) Provide fail-safe automata door closers, arranged to close

upon activation by smoke detectors for the overhead rolling

fire doors separatinq the below grade truck dock from the

elevator lobby;

4) Perform an investinat i on to determine the optimum mode of

operation of the building air-conditioning system to remove

smoke Prom the central core compartments without contaminating

. adjacent areas.

The additional provisions recommended by the consultant over and

above the sprinkler option are items 2, 3 and 4 above and the following.

Provide automatic smoke detection in immediate vicinity

of elevators at each floor level.

66 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of tiie WTC

11 -

In a separate report, pr<M'aT-pcl by the New York Board of

Fire Underwriters, an investigation of the February i3th, 1975 fire,

the Board wrote:

"The Fire Safety Pro'jr.iin of the World Trade Center

is an excellent one."

The Board, while recommending examination of additional safety measures,

further observed:

"In the overall, tlipse towers may be considered as

among i he s;»i'v^i l>u i l<l i ngs in New York City."

7\r^ a result of the invi"-:' i i' ion and studies that have been

I >fr r )rmr'<l , the Cominitior> Ur\F. <\'< il l prix-ood immediately with the

Following strpp in compl ianc" wmIi ,iI '.nw find tlie additional items

ovpr and above Local i-iw 0 r^- I'l !>•• mI • ns li':t<='l below:

A) t;oinpartiiient;il ion <i|.ii<.ii i>f local Law 5 which includes

tlie following inajnr lei-:;

1) Expansion of fii' il.irni and communication system.

2) The installation ..r smoke detectors in elevator

lobbies and addi i ional smoke detectors at air

return inlets.

3) Compartmentation i>f spaces into 7500 square foot areas.

4) Proceed with stair prt^ssxirization design eind prototype

pressurization testing in the structure for World

Trade Center Towers

.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 67
Appendix A

- E -

B) Additional items over and iibove Local Law 5:

1) The implementation of all the recoirmendations

from the consultant and staff,

2) Sprinkler all janitor closets, mail rooms, file

- rooms, storage rooms, etc. in the central

core of each floor of each tower and maike

provisions for exhension of sprinkler system to emy

areas of such ns^ige requiring same as occupancy

may change

.

68 NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

PART I

Report on Fire of February 13, 1975

I ntroduction

After the World Trade Center fire last spring. Dr. Ronan appointed

a Commissioners' Fire Committee which consisted of Commissioners Berlinger,

Axtell, Gilbert and Hellmuth. Commissioner Berlinger was appointed chairman

of the committee. This committee <iirocted Port Authority staff to

thoroughly investigate and review t Ix^ pxtf^nt of the fire and smoke

damage, the origin of the fire, tho ruiiclioninq of the building systems for

prevention, detection and fightinq 'if Tires, and safety procedures. The

Port Authority staff members api'oini'nl i.o carry out this assignment were

Messrs. R. M. Monti, Chief Enninoer; U. K. A^irahams, Chief Contract Division,

Law; J. DeMarinis, Manager, Risk MnH^<|omr«nt Division. The Commissioners*

Fire Committee also retained tlio scrvi' ps of an independent consultant to

review all safety aspects of World Trade Center operations regarding fire

pro tection.

Development of the Fire

The fire started in the office of R. J. Saunders, Inc., Suite

no. 1119. It extended north to two smaller adjacent offices, where it

was stopped in that direction and extended to the southwest comer of the

Saunders office, where it was stopped in that direction. A telephone closet

containing vertical telephone cables, and other equipment is located

adjacent to the Saunders mail area. The closet had a door with ventilation

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 69
Appendix A

- 2 -

louvers. This telephone closet conununicated vertically with identical

telephone closets above and below through an opening containing vertical

telephone cables, and other equipment: was located adjacent to the Saunders

mail area. The closet has a door with ventilation louvers. This

telephone closet coMuunicated vertically with identical telephone closets

above and below through an opening of about 1.5 square feet cut in the

concrete slab. All such southeast telephone closets on floors seven (7)

through forty (40) created a vertical opening within the building; their

doors are normally kept closed. Fire extended to the inside of the 11th

floor telephone closet and communicated to closets on floors above and below

through the concrete slab openings, causing damage to telephone closets on

the 10th, 12th, and 13th floors and lesser damage on the 9th, 14th, 15th

and 16th floors. Ignition of the plastic insulation and the plywood

boards, used for attaching the telephone equipment to the walls of the

closet, occurred. The fire was then transmitted to the 10th said 12th floor

closets. * While it must have taken some period of time for the fire to

fully develop within this telephone closet, it must be noted that this area

within the Saunders suite was probably the last reached by the fire department.

* The openings in the telephone closets were necessarily left dturing

construction for installation of telephone cable and were planned

eventually to be closed up around the cables as soon as further

ccible installation was completed, e.g. for the television broadcasting facilities intended to operate at the top of Tower A. A contract for such closing has been awarded and the work has been

completed.

70 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H. WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

- 3 -

In suiranary the chronological sequence of the observed events

of the fire was as follows:

11:55 p.m., (Thursday, February 13): Cleaning porter in

corridor observed fire under door of Suite 1119; he reported

to the World Trade Center control desk via the fire alarm

emergency telephone in the 11th floor corridor? New York City

Fire Department notified and Port Authority police officers

dispatched to the 11th floor, where they activated the building

standpipe system and commenced to wet down the corridor door

of Suite 1119.

12:01 a.m., first Fire Department units entered the World

Trade Center.

12:09 a.m.. Fire Department units arrived on 11th floor.

12:15 a.m., second group of Fire Department units arrived,

in response to second alarm, transmitted by Fire Department

officer on scene.

12:42 a.m., third group of Fire Department units arrived in

response to third alarm, transmitted by Fire Department

officer on scene; Fire Commissioner O'Hagan also arrived at

this time.

3:22 a.m.. Fire Department indicated all clear condition,

after a floor to floor check up to the 41st floor.

The Fire Department used water from the World Trade Center building

standpipe system, to which it connected its hoses. The Department stated

that there was a sufficient supply of water for fire extingviishment

.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Appendix A

Cause of Fire - Suspected Arson

In July 1975 a Temco Maintenance Company employee was charged

in an indictment with setting the Fobruary 13, 1975 fire as well as five

subsequent World Trade Center fires.

Extent of Fire Damage

The fire damage occurred mainly on the 11th floor, in the southeast

quadrant. Whatever fire damage occiried on other floors was generally limited

to the telephone closet in the southeast quadrant of floors 9 through 14 and

a small portion of spaces immediately adjacent to the telephone closets.

Smoke damage occurred jn '-arying degrees in the adjoining sections of

the 11th floor; elsewhere, the significant smoke damage occurred on the 10th,

12th, 13th and 14th floors. Smoke fl.image on floors 15 through 23 was

generally limited to the area of the telephone closet in the southeast

quadrant and a small portion of the tenant spaces immediately adjacent, in

decreasing degrees.

Existing Building System Evaluation - World Trade Center Building System - Building Code

For further information there follows a description of the

World Trade Center building systems for fire protection and extinguishment, together with an account of the Port Authority's conformance to the

standards established by the New York City Building Code, including the

amendments known as Local Law 5/73, even though the State and its agencies,

such as the Port Authority, are not subject to City building codes.

72 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

- 5

-

References are made in various places to the 1968 building code,

since that code would have applied to construction generally at the time

the World Trade Center was built. A separate discussion addresses itself

to the amendments of 1973, i.e. Local Law No. 5. Following is a description

of the existing systems at the World Trade Center:

Air Distribution Systems

The Trade Center air distribution systems, in addition to

conforming to all the 1968 NYC Building Code requirements,

also possess an additional mode of operation which Ccin be

utilized to assist in controlling smoke from a fire. In

this mode the return air -fiaft and fan systems are used to

exhaust from the office spaces to the exterior of the

building. The core system in also operated to provide outside air to the corridors.*

Fire Standpipe System

The standpipe system consists of manually activated fire

pumps rated at 750 GPM each located at the Service Level,

7th Floor, 41st Floor and 75th Floor. In addition, there

There are four mechanical equipment rooms serving each tower. These equipment rooms, which contain the air handling systems, are located

on the 7th, 41st, 75th and 108th floors. The air distribution from

these floors can be generally divided into three sub-systems, the peripheral, the interior and the core. The peripheral system serves

the floor area around the exterior wall and feeds up frcan the ceiling

of the floor below to induction units at the exterior wedl. The interior system serves the remaining office floor area through ductwork

located above the hung ceiling with air outlets combined with the light

fixtures. Air returns to the equipment room through other light fixtures

into the ceiling area, which acts as a plenum, and from the plenum to shafts running vertically at the building core. The core system serves

the corridor and elevator lobbies.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 73
Appendix A

'1 .i

are 5,000 gal. water storage tanks located on the 20th

Floor, 41st Floor, 75th Floor and roof. There are also

a minimum of three fire hose racks on each floor capable

of reaching every part of that floor. The standpipe system

conforms to the 1968 Building Code. Initially, during

tb*> fighting of the fire. Tower A pump experienced some

difficulty with the speed control panel. Tower B punip,

which was designed to be operable also for Tower A, was

then used. The Tower A pump was returned to use during the

fire fighting, without difficulty. The standpipe system

functioned to the complete satisfaction of the Fire Department throughout.

74 NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

- 7 -

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors were installed in each return air fan discharge

duct and each supply unit. Upon actuation any one of these detectors will

shut down all the ventilation fans within the respective quadrant of the

mechanical room and initiate a print -out and visual and audible alarms in

the central control station. This installation is in conformance with the

1968 Building Code.

In addition to the smoke detectors previously noted, under a

contract prepared prior to enactment of Local Law 5, detectors with supervised circuits have been installr»d ;it 4 locations on each floor of the

Tower Buildings. These detectors an^ Jocated above the hung ceiling

directly in front of a return air f'mt in^ake and indicate an alarm

condition, by floor, at tlie Por^ Aw'liority Police Desk. In the building

zone in which the fire occurred, det'-'i-tor:- were installed and operational on

Floors 9 through 19. These detpcto^ initiated a print-out at th^ police

desk.

Elevator Control

All passenger elevator cats nre capable of being recalled to

their respective lobbies. This conl-rr>l over-rides all individual floor

hall calls, prevents heat from ca] I i iig i car to a "fire floor" and makes

the car available for manual operation by building personnel and the Fire

Department

.

This is in excess of the r°quirrments of the 1968 Code, which

required only one elevator capable of serving each floor equipped for

emergency return and Fire Department Service.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 75
Appendix A

- 8 - '

:

Fire Alarm System

On each floor of each of the World Trade Center buildings, at a

central corridor location, there was a fire alarm emergency telephone which

connected with a control center next to the Police Desk on the lower level

of Tower A. (In addition, the Port Authority has applied on telephones in

its own offices, and has distributed to tenants for their application on

their telephones, a conspicuous red label giving the telephone niiinber of the

Police Desk to call in case of emergency.) An interior fire alarm system

including voice communication has been installed on each floor in the core

corridor. Incoming fire calls to tlio control center illuminate the indicating

lamp of a particular fire station and «;ou)id an audible signal. In addition,

an emergency public address system iircvides communication from the control

center to all locations equipped wil h lo'h (speakers, as selected by the

control center operator. The sysl.'-i" .'i\^>- can transmit, through two individual

microphones, different messages to s<>]f-ctfd loudspeaker areas. It can also

receive communications from the elp-it(>r starter panels. Pre-recorded announcements can be transmitted through ilii*; .^yiitem and announcements originating from

the elevator starter panels can he i raii><mitted through this console to selected

loudspeakers. Fire alarm warble tomis can be transmitted to any floor or

floors from one of these microphone*;.

The control console is equipp«d with separate indicator lights and

switches for each area. The indicating lights provide visual information as to

which loudspeaker area is in operation. In addition, a warning light system

is included to indicate failure of any of the amplifiers located in a remote

location. These amplifiers are tested automatically at intervals or can be

tested manually by operating personnel. Visual indication of amplifier failure

is also provided on the front panel of each power amplifier.

76 NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H. WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

- 9 -

Reouirements of Local Law No. 5/73

The fire safety amendments to the New York City Building Code

embodied in Local Law 5 adopted in 1973 prescribe various measures to be

complied with by various dates. Ttio Port Authority has compiled with

those for which compliance dates have already occurred, and in fact had

incorporated in the World Trade Center design a number of such measures

before they were adopted under Local Law 5. Some examples are as follows.*

Interior fire alarm system, including voice commiunlcatton ;

The World Trade Center was designed and constructed with a fire

alarm and voice communication system in the corridors before any such system

was required by code. Local Law 5 required such a system to be installed,

including its extension into office; spaces as well as stairways, A contract

has been prepared and awarded to extend the system into the office spaces and

stairways.

Automatic "homing" of elevators, and elevator in readiness :

Manual controls presently installed in the World Trade Center permit

recall of all elevators to their home floor, overriding any manual or heat

activation of call buttons, where they can be placed under the conmand of the

Fire Department for fire fighting operations. This too was beyond the requirements of the 1968 code. Local law 5 now requires automatic homing of elevators

when

* While combustibility of furnishings is not dealt with in Local Law 5 or other parts of the New York City Building Code, the Port Authority addressed

itself to this problem in planning the World Trade Center and after extensive

study adopted and applied standards rigidly limiting its own furnishings to

a low rate of f lammability . A copy of the Port Authority's flammabllity

standards was communicated to tenants, pointing out the advisability of their

use.

NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation 77
Appendix A

a smoke detector, to be installed in the elevator lobby of each floor, is

activated. Such additional smoke detectors and automatic activation will

be installed at the World Trade Center.

Sprinklers or Compartmentation and Other Measures

Under Local Law 5, owners of buildings (existing and future) of a

class in which the World Trade Center would be included, are given the option

of sprinklering throughout or of installing certain measures such as coit5)artmentation of each floor into maximum areas of 7,500 square feet each

separated by fire rated partitions, as well as smoke detectors as above

described and pressurization of stnirwrlls.

In certain types of local I'ins, such as below grade areas and

restaurants, and other commercial !=) ii-r-p; , sprinklering is required without

allowance for an option, and in i.ho-o locations the World Trade Center as

originally constructed included spriiikleis.

Fire Safety Plan

Local Law 5 calls for a plan of regular fire drills and evacuation

procedures, approved by the City, under the supervision and control of a

building fire safety director and otio or more deputies. The Port Authority's

plan exceeds these requirements, ami the New York Board of Fire Underwriters,

after investigating the February 13H« fire, observed: "The Fire Safety

Program of the World Trade Center is an excellent one." The Board, while

recommending examination of additional safety measures, such as limiting

combustibility of furnishings, further observed: "In the overall, these

towers may be considered as among the safest buildings in New York City." See

Page 10 of The New York Board of Fire Underwriters report.

* * *

78 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

- 11 -

PART II

Evaluation of Life Safety

The World Trade Center contains a complete fire protection and

life safety installation which is itemized in the following sections.

Furthermore, as indicated herein, additional measures will be implemented

to enhance the present standards.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 79
Appendix A

'1

1 , Existing Life Safety Features

As noted in Part I of this report, the World Trade Center has

extensive life safety features which are in accordance with and beyond

tlie requirements of New York City Code. These features include the

following

:

• fireproof construction

e fire Etandpipe system . .

• smoke purge mode for air condlt:ionij>g systems

• fire alarm and voice communication system

• sprinklers for restaurants, concession areas, and other public areas

• elevator return for Fire Department service

• smoke detectors at the return air system on each floor

• smoke detectors at the main air conditioning system fans.

The above protective systems are described in Part I of this report.

80

\

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

- 13 -

2. Off Hour Protection

As previously noted, smoke detectors are installed at the return

air intcikes in four locations on eacli floor. Tests were conducted to

determine the effective time lapse for detection by initiation of smoke

bombs. The most remote office area with different combinations of fans

operating. As a result of these tests, it is current procedure to

operate one return air fan to each quadrant of the building throughout

the off-hour period. This procedure will permit detection of a fire in its

incipient stage within a maximum of five minutes.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 81
Appendix A

- 14 -

3. Proposed Life Safety Features

To further improve the life safety provisions with the Trade

Center and to include protective measures required by Local Law 5 , the

following steps are underway.

Elevator Lobby Smoke Detectors

A contract for the installation of smoke detectors in each elevator

lobby has been prepared and bids received. The activation of any detector

would automatically cause elevators within the bank serving that floor

to return to their respective lobby to permit full use by the Fire Department.

Extension of Fire Alarm and Commtmication System

As previously noted in Part I , the present alarm system which includes

voice communication between the Police Deck as well as connunlcations through

speaker systems in the core corridors on each floor, will be extended to provide

warble tone alarm within the office areas and message coonminications within the

stairways. A contract for this work has been awarded and is underway.

Plenum Segregation

Where not presently installed, the walls delineating the corridors will

be carried to the underside of the floor slab above to minimize smoke spread.

Stair Pressurization Studies

To provide the added safety of insuring smoke-free stairways, a study

is underway to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of pressurizing the

stairways relative to the office areas. This study includes a study of technical

papers prepared throughout the world, a re-review of the tests conducted at

30 Church Street, an inspection of the 50-story Seattle bank building which has

82 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

an operational stair pressurization system, preliminary testing at the World

Trade Center to determine the methodology and instrumentation reqvdred for conducting an in-situ survey of the World Trade Center stairs prototype system

to pressurize 40 floors in one stairway.

Sprinkler Extension Provision

In addition to sprlnXlering the core area mail and storage rooms,

supplementary fire standpipe and drainage risers will provide extension of the

sprinkler system as future occupemcy chcmges or as conditions may dictate.

4 . Consultants Life Safety Survey of the World Trade Center

In addition to the studies and investigations performed by staff for

life safety protection in the World Trade Center towers, a consultant was

engaged by the Port Authority to make a survey. The consultant engaged for

the survey was the National Loss Control Service Corporation, an organization

which has performed many similar investigations for Insurance Companies and

other organizations in the past.

The premises upon which this survey was conducted started with the

realization that most occupants of buildings of this type will remain Inside

the complex for the duration of the fire incident. Thus, the building must

provide safe refuge, readily accesible for all occtipants, where a tenable

atmosphere can be maintained. The consultant set as criteria that the basic

requirements for an area to remain tenable sltb:

1. maintain structural integrity of the building;

2. absence of exposure to a direct flame;

3. presence of sufficient oxygen for life support;

4. absence of toxic combustion products at concentrations

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 83
Appendix A

sufficient to cause serious injury or even teinporary

disability; and,

5. absence of significant visible smoke.

In the consultant's survey of the Trade Center, he established that

the structural fire resistance of the building is sufficient to make the

probability of serious progressive structural collapse extremely remote,

and the degree of vertical compartmentation effectively limits the spread

of fire and its attendant oxygen depletion to the floor of fire origin.

Adequate exit capacity for the fire floor along with the presence of the

Fire Safety Plan to evacuate the fire floor and the floor above, limits the

exposure of building occupants to direct fire effects. Therefore, the

consultant concluded; "it is the spread of smoke and toxic combustion products

that require principal attention from a life safety st2Uidpoint."

On the basis of these premises the consultant proceeded to study

the effect of fires originating in different areas of the coiif>lex, and the

effects of these fires on the life safety of the occupants. In completing

his studies and evaluations of the World Trade Center Towers, which included

a comparative analysis of the relative life safety of the occx^ants relative

to conforming the towers with either the compartmentation option or sprinkler

option of Local Law 5, the consultant concluded that either of the two fire

protection options provided for under Local Law 5 would provide a good

level of occupant life safety within the World Trade Center complex, provided

that whichever is selected, it is supplemented by certain additional measures.

In the case of the compartmentation option, the consultant recommended that

this option be supplemented with the following additional featxires:

A) Sprinklering of rooms in the central corridor area

84 NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

which could contribute excessive quantities of smoke

to the corridor systems

.

B) Doors which are normally kept open to the corridor

system should be equipped with electro-magnetic

"hold-open" devices and inter-connected to smoke

detection devices to activate the closing cf the

door.

C) Provide fail-safe automatic door closers,

arranged to close upon activation by smoke

detectors for the overhead rolling fire doors

separating the below grade truck door from the

elevator lobby.

D) Perform an investigation to determine the t^tdmum

mode of operation of the building air conditioning

system to remove smoke from the central core

compartments without contaminating adjacent areeis.

In the case of the sprinkler option, the consultant recommended

that this option be supplemented with items B, C smd D noted above for the

compartmentation option, and that in addition, automatic smoke detection, in

the immediate vicinity of elevators at each floor level, should also be provided.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1H, WTC Investigation 85
Appendix A

- 18 -

5. Summary and Conclusions -.

As a result of the studies and investigations performed by

both staff and consultants, it has been concluded that the World

Trade Center Towers do provide life safety protection for its

inhabitants. This life safety protection can be enhanced by the

incorporation of several improvements into the structures as follows:

1. The openings between floors of telephone closets, which

was a source of fire spread during the February 13, 1975 fire should

be closed. This work has been accomplished to prevent any reoccurrences

of a similar condition;

2. In addition, the Port Authority will proceed with the compartmentation option of local Law 5 including all of its requirements

for fire alarm, coiranunications and stairway pressurization;

3. Sprinklering of all storage rooms, janitor closets, mail

rooms and file rooms in the central core of each floor.

4. Building additional sprinkler capacity and provisions

for extension of a sprinkler system to any area of such usage requiring

it in the event of an occupancy change.

5. Equipping those doors which are normally kept open to the

corridor system, such as doors at consumer service areas, with electromagnetic "hold open" devices which would be activated by smoke detectors

to close the doors.

6. Providing fail-safe automatic doors closers, arranged to

close upon activation by smoke detectors, for the overhead rolling

fire doors separating the below-grade truck dock from the elevator

lobby.

86 NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation
Reproduction of Report on Fire Safety of the WTC

- 19 -

7. Developing an optimum mode of opsration of the buiidmq

air-conditioning system to remove smoke from the central cci« compartments without contaminating adjacent areas.

NISTNCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation

87
Appendix A

This page intentionally left blank.

88 NIST NCSTAR 1-1 H, WTC Investigation

i