2. Factors influencing element stability

The resilience of a structure to fire is conditioned by a series of crucial factors. It is essential to consider them holistically to guarantee optimum performance in the event of fire. The key elements are :

• duration and severity of fire: the extent of exposure to fire, both in terms of time and intensity, can significantly affect structural performance; low-intensity but long-lasting fires can be just as damaging as short-lived but very intense ones;

• type of structural system and imposed loads: the behavior of a structure in the event of fire varies according to the structural system adopted, whether isostatic (simply supported) or hyperstatic (undetermined); moreover, the permanent and variable loads exerted on the structure modulate its reaction to fire;

• intrinsic strength of structural...