Rolf Jensen & Associates provides a complete range of consulting services for projects involving government facilities:

• Audits and Surveys
• Fire Protection Master Plans
• Code Analysis/Negotiation
• Systems Design
• Performance-based Design
• Timed Exit Analysis
• Computer Fire Modeling
• Construction Management
• Systems Commissioning
• Inspection/Testing
• Maintenance Management
• User Training

Government facilities projects pose unique fire protection challenges involving these key considerations:

Qualifications. The General Services Administration (GSA) has strict guidelines for fire protection engineers involved in Federal construction projects. The engineer - who must be a member of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers and affiliated with a recognized fire protection engineering firm - is challenged to apply sound engineering principles to efficiently and economically meet GSA fire protection objectives as outlined in the Safety and Environmental Management Program (PBS/PQ-100).

Design Team Synergy. As a member of the design team on a governmental project, the fire protection consultant is expected to participate in all phases from concept development to final working drawings. Furthermore, consultants must be capable of contributing expertise on a broad range of topics within their field.

Value. Since governmental projects are funded by taxpayers, it is critical that the fire protection systems interface with other building systems, perform intended functions, comply with all government standards and assure serviceability. The master plan will then provide cost-effective fire protection and security for the project facility, whether it is a foreign embassy, a courthouse or postal center.

Different Systems and Codes. In most cases, a goverment facility - whether a single building or a sprawling campus - offers fire protection systems of different types, different ages and different manufacturers. In addition, the codes and standards which come into play range from building and electrical codes to accessibility requirements for the disabled.

The Need for Integration. The fire and security challenge is one of integration. People must be protected, property must be safeguarded and both access and egress must be provided. All of this must be accomplished in a cost-effective manner that meets the intent of the law and also provides for growth and inevitable change.