by Dr. Midya Arif Tayfor, architect & urban researcher
Unfortunately, there have been an increasing number of incidents in recent times where buildings in the Kurdistan Region (Iraq) are engulfed in flames. However, this is not a new phenomenon – for years, we have witnessed fires in large facilities, student dormitories, hotels, residential buildings, villas, and most recently, in bazaars. The causes of these fires are not always immediately apparent. In most cases, however, they can be attributed to poor architecture, substandard building materials, or the lack of proper fire protection measures and prevention.
Architecture and Fire Protection – A Neglected Topic
Regrettably, architecture and fire protection are not among the favored subjects of many architects, even though these issues must be considered in every construction project worldwide. Typically, a specialist is brought in to collaborate with the architect on the concept. Strict building regulations exist that planners are required to follow. Nevertheless, in the Kurdistan Region, much construction occurs without adequate attention to fire protection or accessibility. While some modern projects meet Western standards—including proper fire protection and accessibility—these are unfortunately the exception rather than the rule.
My aim is to bring this important topic into the public spotlight. So much is being built in Kurdistan – from large projects and settlements to both public and private constructions – yet fire protection is often neglected. I wish to present the fundamentals of architecture and fire protection here to raise public awareness and possibly even promote preventive measures.
The Grim Toll: Many Fires, Many Victims
In recent years, there have been numerous fires with tragic consequences:
• At a wedding celebration in Qaraqosh, Iraq (Sept. 2023), over a hundred people lost their lives.
• Bazaars and industrial facilities, such as those in Erbil (May 2024) and Suleimania (Oct. 2024), have repeatedly been affected.
• In student dormitories, the lack of escape routes forced desperate individuals to jump from windows.
• In houses and apartments, interior furnishings made of flammable materials like plastic allowed fires to spread rapidly.
• Gas cylinders have exploded during cooking.
When a fire breaks out, onlookers are often seen taking photos or even attempting to steal goods, instead of clearing the way for the fire brigade and rescue services, as was observed at the Erbil bazaar.
An Incomprehensible Blight
As an architect with extensive experience in both Europe and the Middle East, I am astonished that this issue remains unresolved. While strict regulations prevail in the West, construction in Kurdistan is frequently carried out with little regard for fire protection – it seems that “just finish quickly” is often the prevailing motto. In this context, it is urgently necessary to incorporate fire protection measures into the building plan from the very beginning.
The Complex Issue of Fire Protection
Of course, even in the West, fire protection is not a topic that many architects or construction professionals are passionate about. Every planning process begins with creative designs, but as soon as fire protection is considered, the entire design often needs to be revised. Here in Kurdistan, however, the challenge is not only a matter of expertise but also of interest: much construction occurs without the necessary awareness of life-saving fire protection measures.
It is unrealistic to expect that a single column can fully explain the complex topic of fire protection. Nonetheless, the issue should be discussed—not only in terms of fires but also regarding potential prevention and precautions. How do other cities around the world manage this? What measures can be sensibly applied to the situation in Kurdistan?
Fundamentals of Fire Protection
Fire protection can be divided into several categories:
- Structural Fire Protection: Involves planning fire compartments, using fire-resistant building materials, and ensuring sufficient escape routes.
- Technical Fire Protection: Refers to fire protection systems, such as fire alarm and suppression systems or smoke extraction systems.
- Organizational Fire Protection: Includes measures like the maintenance of fire protection equipment, keeping escape routes clear, and training in emergency procedures.
- Defensive Fire Protection: Concerns ensuring accessibility for the fire brigade and providing adequate quantities of extinguishing water.
Important Aspects of Prevention
The spread of fires can be prevented through structural measures. Early warning systems and clearly marked escape routes facilitate self-rescue. Fire protection and prevention are not only about saving lives but also about safeguarding valuable assets. The protection of cultural heritage and tangible assets is the responsibility of the owners, yet it is often neglected.
For specialized buildings such as high-rises, hospitals, or industrial facilities, specialists should be consulted. For construction projects with unique challenges – such as those involving explosive materials or increasingly wooden structures – expert knowledge is indispensable.
Fire Protection and Accessibility
It is particularly important to incorporate the needs of people with disabilities into fire protection measures. This includes providing safe assembly points and alternative orientation aids for those with sensory impairments. Since elevators cannot be used in the event of a fire, special escape routes must be provided for individuals with mobility limitations.
Conclusion: Fire Protection – A Necessity
It is essential that builders and architects involve the appropriate specialists. Fire protection is a matter of life and should be integrated into the planning phase as early as possible to avoid unnecessary additional costs from retrofitting. Architects should at least possess basic knowledge of fire protection to design buildings that are safe and accommodating to human needs.
In the end, it is crucial that professionals are involved – because this is a major investment that can ultimately save lives.