NO_PANIC. “Escape and Panic in Buildings”—Architectural Basic Research in the Context of Security and Safety Research

Abstract

The increasing number of reported fires or other catastrophes (see Table 1) occurring in large events leads to the interesting question of why preventive design-related and organizational measures have not been taken. It also confirms the need to rethink existing building codes and safety concepts, as well as inclusion of new ways to optimize buildings and event sites. This research project “KEINE PANIK”—“NO PANIC” deals with planning criteria in regards to orientation in public buildings (such as airports, train stations, meeting halls or areas, concert halls, stadiums, etc.) during high-stress situations and its influence on the right choice of evacuation routes. The potentials of simulation-data optimizing the safety of persons in buildings must be included to the planning process, the same as the results of the different research groups should be applied in the three dimensional procedure of architectural design.