Integrated multi-agent-based outpatient building fire response modeling for risk-driven resource use and retrofitting strategies: A case study

Abstract

To evaluate and optimize the evacuation capability of an outpatient building from a risk-driven perspective, a multi-agent-based modeling framework for emergency response that integrates the processes of fire evolution, emergency evacuation and rescue was developed. Then explored evacuation capacity optimization strategies from the perspectives of resource use and building retrofitting. To verify the effectiveness and applicability of the method, an evacuation model that simulates a fire in the outpatient building was developed. It was found that few occupants with restricted mobility took up the most evacuation time, need to improve the vertical mobility of these occupants; To prevent unplanned evacuation network interruptions due to fire, stairwell availability needs to be protected; The use of elevators for evacuation needs to be centralized to speed up the evacuation. The results of the current study will help public emergency authorities develop an effective plan for optimizing the emergency response system in outpatient buildings.