Use of a Modified Network Model for Analyzing Evacuation Patterns in High-Rise Buildings

A modified coarse network model has been developed to simulate the evacuation patterns in high-rise buildings. The model can account for high-density situations as well as recording the process of an individual's locomotion pattern. The results of simulations show that all occupants in a high-rise building are unlikely to escape in a few minutes. Provision of a refuge space such as a designated refuge floor can facilitate the evacuation process and provide a temporary “resting place” for evacuees. The effect of the width of the staircase or escape routes is examined in high-density buildings. The reaction time of occupants has also been studied and has demonstrated that in high-density buildings, there exists a threshold limit within which its effect on the overall evacuation time is not critical.