Qualitative and quantitative analysis of fire evacuation risks of 18 historical mosques in Ankara-Altındağ region

Abstract

In this study, in which 18 historical mosques from the Altındağ region of Ankara were evaluated, it was aimed to determine fire evacuation risks of mosques. In this context, firstly, the common causes of fire in mosques were investigated on 77 mosque fires. A qualitative risk analysis of mosques was conducted by examining the presence of fire evacuation risks in mosques, which were determined through the literature. In addition, quantitative risk analysis was conducted separately for the ground and upper floors of the mosques with the exit capacity determined by Turkey’s Regulation on Fire Protection. According to the results, 9 out of 18 mosques were found to be risky qualitatively and 4 quantitatively. In addition, 2 mosques were found to be risky both quantitatively and qualitatively. Reducing the fire evacuation risk value of these buildings if possible, and if not possible, monitoring these buildings more closely and keeping them under observation will prevent possible loss of life. By applying the proposed model to other building types, evacuation risk values of the buildings can be determined, and the necessary measures can be taken.