building services 2

Group Members : Chiam Jia Ern (0318524)

Hii Pai Ling (0320598)

Jenny Hoo Yee Tyng (0321841)

Khor Ka Nee (0321789)

Liew Chia Niu (0313338)

Na Yeow Sing (0320385)

Ng Jia Nan (0321451)

Building Services II (BLD60503)

Case Study: Giant Mall Kelana Jaya

SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING AND DESIGN

BACHELOR IN QUANTITY SURVEYING (HONOURS)

Lecturer : Dr. Kam Kenn Jhun

Table of Content

No Content Pages

1.0 Acknowledgment 1

2.0 Abstract 2

3.0 Part 1 (Purpose of the building as case study) 3

4.0 Part 2 (Existing types of system)

4.1 Mechanical and Air-conditioning System 5

4.2 Fire Protection System 18

4.3 Vertical Transportation System 33

4.4 Electrical Supply System 39

5.0 Part 3 (Problems and Recommendations)

5.1 Fire Protection 44

5.2 Vertical Transport 55

6.0 Conclusion 64

7.0 Appendix 65

8.0 References 66

1.0 Acknowledgment

We want thanks those who had helped and guided us to complete this group assignment.

First, we want to thank our lecturer, Dr. Kam Kenn Jhun. During this assignment, he has

encouraged and guided us in the choosing building and preparation of our case study

report.

Besides, we also want to thanks Ms Sarryan from the divisional office of Architecture,

Building, and Design for providing the approval letter for us to site visit at Giant Kelana

Jaya Mall.

Lastly, thanks to the group mates of hardly to complete their own part and contributed

suggestions and give own opinion for this assignment. We also need to thank our leader

for having the good leadership and worked hard to gain approval for site visit and his

encouragement in order to ensure that we can finish our work.

Acknowledgement 1

2.0 Abstract

Our group members who are Chiam Jia Ern, Hii Pai Ling, Jenny Hoo Yee Tyng, Khor Ka

Nee, Liew Chia Niu, Na Yeow Sing and Ng Jia Nan had chosen Giant Kelana Jaya Mall

as our Building Services 2 Case Study. In this case study, we are requested to select a

building as a case study project and observe the building services systems taught in this

module. This assignment consists of four parts. Part 1 is describe the purpose of the

building as a case study. Part 2 is discuss about the existing types of system there have

in building. Part 3 is identify the problems, comment on two systems, compare and contrast

the current system with our recommendation and solution for that two problem system that

we find in the building. Lastly, part 4 is justify our finding from Part 3 and recommend the

best system for this building. This assignment has given us an opportunity to learn and do

more research regarding to building services.

Figure 2.0A – Outside view of Giant Mall.

Abstract 2

3.0 Part 1 (Purpose of the building as case study)

What is Building Services? Imagine yourself in one of the building in this world. Now take

away all the system that have in this building like ventilation, mechanical, air conditioning,

vertical transport and fire protection system. What you will feel? So, everything inside a

building which makes us feel safe and comfortable that is under the title of 'Building

services'. Building Services is important to us, nowadays people can’t live without any

building services.

We choose Giant Mall as our case study is because it is an old building at Kelana Jaya

compare to Paradigm Mall. Besides that, we choose this mall also because it has the

system that we learn in this module such as mechanical and air conditioning, fire protection,

vertical transport and electrical supply.

Giant Mall is located opposite of Paradigm Mall. It has three floors including 75 shop lots,

15 food court, 15 pushcarts, and 60 promotion spaces. It also consists 809 parking bars,

which is indoor and outdoor parking. All parking bays are at ground floor.

Figure 3.0A – Map of Giant Mall. Location of Giant Mall: No. 33, Jalan SS 6/12, Kelana Jaya,

47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, MALAYSIA

Purpose of the building as case study 3

Available Lots

Mall Info Total Lots Availability

Shop lots 75 √

Food court 15 √

Pushcarts 15 √

Promotion Space 60 √

Total 165

Figure 3.0B – Floor Plan of Gaint Mall.

Purpose of the building as case study 4

4.0 Part 2 (Existing types of system)

4.1 Mechanical and Air-conditioning System

Ventilation is a process that replacing air in an enclosed space to control the temperature.

A proportion of air within the enclosed space should be continuously withdrawn and

replaced by fresh air.(Greeno, R., 1997, Building Services, Technology and Design)

4.1.1 Natural Ventilation

Natural Ventilation is a process of supplying and removing air through an indoor space

without using mechanical systems. It refers to the flow of external air to an indoor space

as a result of pressure or temperature differences.

4.1.2 Mechanical Ventilation

Mechanical ventilation systems circulate fresh air using ducts and fans rather than relying

on airflow through small holes or crack’s in a home’s wall, roof or windows. By using the

mechanical ventilation, we have more control to provide the proper fresh air flow along with

appropriate locations for intake and exhaust. The components of mechanical ventilation

include:

1) Fan

Figure 4.1.2B - Three type of fan.

Figure 4.1.2A - Cross-flow fan.

Existing types of system 5

2) Filter

-to ensure a specified air change and force the air under fan pressure

3) Ductwork

-to deliver and remove air

Figure 4.1.2C - The replacement air filter

Figure 4.1.2D - The ducting located at the carpark.


4) Fire dampers

-to prevent the spread of fire inside the ductwork and diffusers (to have more complex

and efficient coned air distributors)

Diffuser

Diffuser is the mechanical device that is designed to control the characteristics of a fluid at

the entrance to a thermodynamic open system. It can be as a shape of round, rectangular,

or can be as linear slot diffusers. There are two type of diffuser we found in Giant Kelana

Jaya which are four-way louvre bladed diffuser and side-wall inlet.

Figure 4.1.2E - The fire damper place at staircase area


1) Louvre Bladed Diffuser

Louvre bladed diffuser is commonly used to supply air at ceiling level. The curved blades

deflect air in one, two, three or four directions depending on where the diffuser is situated.

In Giant Kelana Jaya, it is the four-way louvre bladed diffuser. This type of diffuser is a

multi-cone adjustable diffuser, which can be changed from horizontal 4-way diffusion to

vertical projection.

2) Side-wall Inlet Diffuser

This diffuser is suitable when there is no false ceiling. Each inlet is equipped with a grill. A

series of grill distributed at the internals along the inner partition wall with ducts in the

corridor. Double deflection type is the most common and effective form. There are 2 sets

of adjustable louvers used to control the air delivery in vertical and horizontal plane.

Figure 4.1.2G - The diffuser at the food court area.

Figure 4.1.2F - The four-way louvre bladed diffuser.


Outlet Air Conditioning

An air outlet is the outermost panel within any type of object that controls the rate in which

air passes into the surrounding area. Many air outlets have the ability to be open or shut

at varying degrees to restrict the flow of currents coming and going; some of them can also

be sealed off completely to stop airflow. This function is especially important, because if

without the proper filtration, the air itself could reach life-threatening levels.

Figure 4.1.2H - The side-wall inlet

diffuser in Giant.

Figure 4.1.2 - The air outlet at the carpark area.

Figure 4.1.2J - The air outlet inside the Giant mall.


Air Conditioning System

An air conditioning system is composed of components and equipment arranged in

sequence to condition the air, to transport it to the conditioned space, and to control the

indoor environmental parameters of specific space within required limits. There are three

type of air conditioning which are unitary system, package system and centralized system.

In our cases, Giant Kelana Jaya is a large area building and requires high cooling. The air

conditioning system that has been adopted by the building is centralized system.

Centralized System

Centralized systems is a manufacturer of air movement and control equipment. This

system mostly can serve multiple spaces from one base location. These typically use

chilled water as a cooling medium and use extensive ductwork for air distribution.

The advantages of central air conditioning systems are better control of comfort conditions,

higher energy efficiency and greater load-management potential when compare to other

system. However, centralized system are more expensive to install and are usually more

sophisticated to operate and maintain. Thus, this system is more suitable for mid to high

rise buildings. Furthermore, it is not suitable for the existing building because this system

must be incorporated in the design of new building.


0

Centralized systems are defined as those in which the cooling (chilled water) is generated

in a chiller at one base location and distributed to air-handling units or fan-coil units located

throughout the building spaces.

Figure 4.1.2K - Centralized air-

conditioning system.

Figure 4.1.2L - This is the

centralized system how

works in Giant Kelana

Jaya.


Chilled Water Air- conditioning System

Chilled Water systems is a system that employ water chillers. This system makes use of

water as its secondary refrigerant. Chiller is used to remove heat from the water which is

then circulated through other components to absorb heat from the space. Chilled water air

conditioning systems are commonly used in applications that need large cooling capacity

such as hypermarket, industrial process, commercial air conditioning such as offices and

factories.

The advantages of this system are cost-effectiveness and no hazard of having refrigerant

piped all over the building. There are three major subsystems in this system which are the

chilled water plant, the condenser water system (or heat rejection system) and the air-

delivery system.

Figure 4.1.2M - A typical chilled water central system


Water Chiller

A device that removes heat from a liquid via a vapor-compression or absorption

refrigeration cycle. This cooled liquid flows through pipes in a building and passes through

coils in air handlers, fan-coil units, or other systems, cooling and usually dehumidifying the

air in the building. Chillers are of two types; air cooled or water cooled.

Evaporator

The evaporator works the opposite of the condenser, here refrigerant liquid is converted

to gas, absorbing heat from the air in the compartment.

Figure 4.1.2N - The example of water chiller device

Figure 4.1.2O - A typical evaporator of chiller


Compressor

The compressor compacts the refrigerant vapor and pumps it to the reversing valve.

Condenser

An equipment that converts a gas to a liquid to obtain either the substance or the released

heat.

Figure 4.1.2P - The example of compressor.

Figure 4.1.2Q - The condenser mechanical drawing.


Cooling Tower

Cooling towers are heat rejection devices used to transfer process waste heat to

the atmosphere. Cooling towers may either use the evaporation of water to reject process

heat and cool the working fluid to near the wet-bulb air temperature or rely solely on air to

cool the working fluid to near the dry-bulb air temperature.

AHU (Air Handling Unit)

AHU is a device used to condition and circulate air as part of HVAC system. Usually, an

air handler is a large metal box containing a blower, heating or cooling

elements, filter racks or chambers, sound attenuators, and dampers. Air handlers usually

connect to ductwork that distributes the conditioned air through the building, and returns it

to the AHU.

Figure 4.1.2R - The cooling tower of Giant is located at the roof of this building.


Condenser Pump Room

This is a set of device by using mechanical forces to move the condenser water.

Figure 4.1.2U - The pump which use to pump the refrigerant (water).

Figure 4.1.2T - The ducting and piping in condenser pump room.

Figure 4.1.2S - The Condenser pump room of Giant Kelana Jaya.


Figure 4.1.2W - This is the hot water supply because the pipe is connecting to the mall.

Figure 4.1.2X - The condenser which convert the gas to the liquid.

Figure 4.1.2Z - The piping in Condenser

Pump Room

CWR: Condenser Water Return CWS: Condenser Water Supply

Figure 4.1.2V - The water supply in the room.

Figure 4.1.2Y - The air filters are put on the ground in the room.


4.2 Fire Protection System

Fire protection refers to measures taken in order to prevent fire from becoming destructive,

reduce the effects of uncontrolled fire and save lives and property. The duty of the fire

protection system may be to extinguish the fire or control the fire. The basic factors of a

fire triangle are fuel, heat and oxygen, together with the chemical reaction between one

another. Combustion is a chemical reaction which substances combine chemically with

oxygen from the air and typically give out bright light, heat and smoke. Fire protection

systems are subdivided into two, which are active fire protection system and passive fire

protection system.

4.2.1 Active Fire Protection System

Active Fire protection system includes the action of extinguishes the fire, or being notified

of fire happenings and smoke conditions by automatic or manual operation system. These

systems are always on alert and first to act in case of fire. It interacts with their surroundings

by:

Operating fans for smoke extraction.

Operating a fire sprinkler to extinguish a fire.

Opening a vent to allow assisted natural ventilation.

The first stage of active fire protection is to detect the fire, by detecting heat, smoke or

flames, an automatic fire alarm system is commonly used to trigger most active systems,

then, automatically operates the active systems.

a) Fire alarm bell

The fire alarm bells in Giant Mall are activated by the fire detector throughout the

building. There are two type of fire alarm bell which are continuous bells and single-

stroke bells. Giant Mall is using the continuous type of fire alarm bell. Continuous

bells have a component inside which utilizes an electric loop got back to a solenoid

to force a mallet. At the point when the mallet backtracks, it separates the circuit

and bringing on the solenoid to give up, sending the sledge into the gong and ringing


it. When the hammer moves forward, it reconnects the circuit which pulls the sledge

back once more. It proceeds with this cycle until the force is detached.

b) Manual Call Point

A manual call point also called as an emergency break glass is a device that

enables the occupants to raise the alarm by breaking the frangible element on the

fascia. Most of the manual call points mounted 1.4m from the floor and installed

where they can be easily seen especially on the floor and installed where they can

be easily seen especially on floor landings of stairways and at exists to open air.

Figure 4.2.1A - Fire alarm bell in Giant Mall.

Figure 4.2.1B - Fire alarm with break glass.


c) Wet Riser

Wet riser is constantly filled with water. The water supply shall be capable of

maintaining a running pressure of 410 kPa at the highest landing valve and given a

flow rate of 2.3litre/second. In Giant Mall, wet riser is located near the emergency

staircase in each and every floor.

Figure 4.2.1C - Manual Call Point is connected to the alarm bell.

Figure 4.2.1D - Hose Reel.


d) Fireman Intercom System

Fireman intercom system provide a two1way communication between remote

areas and the fire command centre in Giant Mall.

Figure 4.2.1G - “Telefon Bomba Api” located at emergency exit.

Figure 4.2.1F - Wet riser outlet. Figure 4.2.1E - Wet riser pipe and hose reel.


e) Fire alarm control panel

The fire alarm panel is designed to monitor each circuit, zone or point of any

condition display the status of that condition and to operate any required output.

(Firewize nd)

f) Pendent Sprinkle

For most fires, water represents the ideal extinguishing agent. Fire sprinklers utilize

water by direct application onto flames and heat, which causes cooling of the

combustion process and prevents ignition of adjacent combustibles. They are most

effective during the fire’s initial flame growth stage, while the fire is relatively easy

to control.

Fire sprinkler system are actually heat activated, one sprinkler head at a time and

most fires usually require only one or two sprinklers to be extinguished.

Figure 4.2.1H - Fire control panel that

indicates the area and zones in case of fire.


Figure 4.2.1I - pendent sprinkler in Giant Mall.

g) External Fire Hydrant

External fire hydrant consists of a system of pipework connected directly to the

water supply mains to supply water to every hydrant outlet and intended for the

fireman to fight fire. Fireman will connect their equipment to the outlets of the

hydrant, forcing water into the system. The distance between the fire hydrant and

the building is between 4m to 8m. Fire hydrant is place beside the road so that the

fire brigade could get easy access to input their hose. The type of fire hydrant used

is two-way fire hydrant.

Figure 4.2.1J - External Fire Hydrant in Kelana Jaya Giant Mall.


Figure 4.2.1K - Hydrant System Detail Drawing.

h) Water Tank

The water storage tank is located at the top floor of Giant Mall. The wet riser

system and water sprinkler system uses the same water. The volume of water

contained in the water tank is sufficient to supply water to the whole building.

Figure 4.2.1L - Water storage tank on the top floor of Giant Mall.


i) Fire Man Switch

The fireman switch is designed to turn off the neon lighting or other hazardous

electrical equipment in case of fire (ABB 2012). This is to prevent the equipment

from being overheated and in turn causes explosion. In Giant Mall, there are a lot

of fire switches which are fixed onto the wall and painted red, thus, fire man switch

are easily spotted.

Figure 4.2.1M - Fire Man Switch.

j) Smoke Detector

All smoke detectors consist of two basic parts, a sensor to sense the smoke and a

very loud electronic horn to wake people up. There are two types of smoke detector

commonly found in the market which are photoelectric smoke detector and

ionization smoke detector. Diagram above shown the ionization smoke detector

used in Giant Mall. This kind of alarm uses a little measure of radioactive material

to ionize air in an internal sensing chamber. Subsequently, the air in the chamber

gets to be conductive allowing current to flow between two charged electrodes. At

the point when smoke particles enter the chamber, the conductivity of the chamber

air will decrease. When this reduction in conductivity is reduced to a predetermined


level, the alarm is set off. Smoke detectors in Giant Mall are powered by a central

fire alarm system, which is powered by the building power with a battery backup.

Figure 4.2.1N - Smoke Detector.

k) Fire extinguishing system

Fire extinguishing systems are commonly used to protect areas containing valuable

or critical equipment such as data processing rooms, telecommunication switches

and process control rooms. Their main function is to quickly extinguish a developing

fire and alert occupants before extensive damage occurs by filling the protected

area with a gas or chemical extinguishing agent. Usually they can be found at exits,

where they are easy to get hold of, in the case of an emergency. Basically, the fire

extinguisher can be found at all the floors, to be specific besides every fire escape

doors and hose reel rooms and almost every corner that easy to reach in Giant Mall.

The type of fire extinguisher that Giant Mall uses throughout the building is dry

powder extinguisher. Portable Fire extinguishers installed are primarily of Dry

Powder variety which can extinguish majority of classes of fire.


Fire Class Properties Travel Distance

Class A Solid material of

organic nature with

formation of glowing

ambers (e.g. paper,

wood)

75 ft. (22.9m)

Class B Liquid or liquefiable

solids (e.g. petrol,

kerosene, diesel)

50 ft. (15.2m)

Class C Gases (e.g. Oxygen,

Carbon Monoxide)

Based on A or B

Hazard

Class D Metals (e.g. Sodium,

Potassium,

Magnesium)

75 ft.

Class E Electrical equipment -

Figure 4.2.1P - Portable Fire Extinguisher in Giant Mall.

Figure 4.2.1O - Table of Classes of Fire and Travel Distance


2.1.2 Passive Fire Protection System

Passive Fire protection (PFP) is a term used to describe the parts of a building that

provides a barrier to fire which slowing the spread rate of fire. It is achieved by included

the fire resistant walls, escape route, emergency access and opening protection in a

building. Passive fire protection also protects load bearing columns and other critical

structures to prevent the building collapsing during fires. It is often used where water or

other active protection media supplies are inadequate, such as in remote locations, or

where there are difficulties with handling fire water run-off. Passive fire protection is only

effective for short duration exposure about 1-2 hours.

a) Fire Escape Plan

Fire escape provides a method of escape in the event of fire or other emergency

that makes the stairwells inside a building inaccessible which allow the occupant to

leave the building to a safer area range outside of the building, such as fire

assembly area. There are routes and exits that were designed particularly in Giant

Mall in case of fire.

Figure 4.2.2A - ground floor fire escape plan.


Figure 4.2.2B - first floor fire escape plan.

Figure 4.2.2C - second floor fire escape plan.

b) Emergency Exit Signage

Exit signs designed to indicate the closest emergency exit or other emergency

information. It is an effective guidance tool, helping to reduce panic and confusion

by providing a clear directional system. The letters are written in block letters

adequately enormous to be seen and green on colour to attract attention. In our

country, the exit signage is written in Malay word “Keluar”, which mean EXIT.


Figure 4.2.2D - Emergency exit sign found at every floor of Giant Mall.

Figure 4.2.2E - “Keluar” Sign found on top of each fire escape door.

c) Fire Escape Door

Location: All escape door

Material: Solid hardwood core with asbestos insulation board

Dimension: Single leaf 900mm x 2100mm x 38mm

Double leaf 1800mm x 2100mm x 38mm

Fire rated: 1 hour


Figure 4.2.2F - Single leaf door. Figure 4.2.2G - Double leaf door.

d) Fire Escape Staircase

Giant Mall has its own fire escape staircases with door boundaries at every floor of

the shopping mall. The type of fire escape staircase used is half landing staircase

and the material used is cements concrete. There is an opening to the outdoor at

each stairway exit enabling smoke to escape during fire and also for ventilation

purpose. The landing area has a dimension of 1.2m X 2.4m. The stairway landing

is sufficiently wide to accommodate the occupants in the event of fire to escape.

Figure 4.2.2H - Fire escape staircase

that links to outside of mall.


Figure 4.2.2I - Tread = 275mm Figure 4.2.2J - Riser = 170mm

According to UBBL section 168 part 8, treads of fire escape staircase are more than

255mm and the riser is less than 180mm.

e) Fire assembly point

There is 2 assembly points that found in Giant Mall, fire assembly point A and B.

The capacity shall be classified according to its capacity as follows class A, B and

C. For class A-capacity is to accommodate 1000 persons and above, class B-

capacity is to accommodate 300 to 1000 persons, for class C-capacity is to

accommodate 100 to 300 persons. The assembly point of Giant Mall is subject to

class-A capacity and class-B capacity.

Figure 4.2.2K - Fire assembly point A. Figure 4.2.2L - Fire assembly point B.


4.3 Vertical Transport

An elevator or lift is a type of vertical transport equipment that efficiently moves people or

goods between floors, levels or decks of a building, vessel or other structures. Forms of

vertical transportation may be found within, around and in general association with modern

buildings and developments.

Figure 4.3A - This is the first floor plan of Giant Mall.

Travelator

Lift/Elevator

Travelator &

Escalator


4.3.1Elevator

Elevators are generally powered by electric motors that either drive traction cables or

counterweight systems like a hoist, or pump hydraulic fluid to raise a cylindrical piston like

a jack.

Hydraulic freight elevator

The type of elevator that used in Giant Mall are hydraulic freight elevator. The hydraulic

elevator has a two speed and centre opening and load capacity of 2600kg which can hold

up to 38 passengers or 2600kg. The door closing time is 3 seconds. Time for the lift to

travel from the highest floor to the lowest floor is 17 seconds. Time for the lift to travel from

one floor to another floor needs 9 seconds. The lift arrangement consists of only one lift

for 3 floors, so the quality of the service is excellent. The main usage of this particular lift

is to move the trolley.

Hydraulic elevator are elevator that has an underground cylinder. Hydraulic elevator are

powered by the piston that travels inside a cylinder to lift the elevator cab. The cost for

installing this type of elevator is cheaper compare to a traction elevator. Hydraulic elevator

are usually installed in a building that has fewer floor. The low maintenance cost of this

type elevator makes them the ideal choice for low rise and low traffic installation. There is

only one elevator installed in the mall, the overall maintenance of the elevator is good

expect the aesthetic appearance inside the elevator.


Figure 4.3.1A - The section view and components of hydraulic lift.

Figure 4.3.1B - The lift car of elevator. Figure 4.3.1C - The hydraulic elevator located at level 2 near to maintenance office.


4.3.2 Escalator & Travelator

An escalator is a conveyor transport designed for moving people quickly and efficiently

between floors of a building. It also requires no waiting time for us and reversible to suit

the main flow of traffic during peak times. Escalator is normally located at department store,

exhibition hall, air terminal and railway station. Several escalators will be required and can

be grouped in a number of ways to suit the building functions when large numbers of

people are anticipated.

The speeds of the escalators in Giant Mall is between 0.5 m/s and 0.6 m/s. Step width is

about 1000mm, which allow two people to stand side by side or to pass on the step

A travelator (moving walkway, moving sidewalk) is a slow conveyor belt that transports

people horizontally up to the practical limitations of about 300 m. They work in a similar

manner to an escalator. In both cases, riders can walk or stand. The walkways are often

supplied in pairs, one for each direction. They are particularly useful in large railways and

airports terminals, as well shopping complexes, and may be inclined up to about 15° where

level differentials occurs.

The speeds of the travelators in Giant Mall is 0.8 m/s. The step width is about 1200mm,

which allow two people to stand side by side, or to allow adequate room for customers to

Figure 4.3.1D - The load capacity of

elevator.

Figure 4.3.1E - The lift of Giant is normally used for transport and move the goods and trolley.


pass easily with the trolleys because the main purpose of these travelators in Giant is

easier to the customers to carry their stuff with trolley and travel from one floor to another

floor.

Escalator Arrangement

There are two type of arrangement we found in Giant Mall which are double bank in two

travel direction and multi-level parallel arrangement with interrupted traffic in two travel

direction.

(Two way Traffic)

(Two way Traffic)

(One way Traffic)

(One way Traffic)

Used mainly in department

stores and public transportation

buildings with heavy traffic flow.

Used to connect two levels and

direction can be adjusted to suit

traffic flow.

This arrangement allows

customers to travel quickly to

upper floors without any waiting

time.

Customers have to walk past

strategically placed merchandise

displays.


Figure 4.3.2A - Escalators in double

bank with interrupted traffic in two travel

direction.

Figure 4.3.2B - The other view of

escalator.

Figure 4.3.2C - The travelator is located

at the first floor to second floor.

Figure 4.3.2D - The travelator is located

at the second floor to third floor.

Figure 4.3.2E - The notice signboard is

placed on the glazing of the travelator

Figure 4.3.2F - The signboard of Giant Mall

show that the arrangement of travelator.


4.4 Electrical Supply and Distribution System

Electricity in Giant Mall is mostly used for air conditioning, lighting, elevators, escalators,

appliances, etc. Electricity from the power station is stepped up from the power plant to

keep loss of electricity to a minimum due to resistance of the material transmitting

electricity, usually copper. As shown in the diagram below, before the distribution stations,

it is further stepped down to either 275kv or 132kv and when it reaches the substation, it

is stepped down to 33kv. The local substations would further reduce the electricity from

33kv to 11kv, which the Giant Mall uses. In the Giant Mall, the transformer further steps it

down to the usable voltages.

Figure 4.4A - Generally explanation on how power is transmitted to buildings.


Figure 4.4B - Transmission.

a) Main Switch Board / Distribution Panel

The main switchboard is a large assembly of panels which contains switches which

allow electricity to be redirected. It is to divide the main current into smaller currents

for further distribution control of current. With main switch board, one can control

the electrical supply of the entire network from just one area. The function of a

switchboard is to allow the division of the current supplied to the switchboard into

smaller currents for further distribution and to provide switching and current

protection.

Figure 4.4C - Main Switch

Board Box.


b) Sub-Switch Board

The sub-switch board has the same functionality of the main switch board which is

to connect and disconnect the electric supply from the main switchboard. It is

enclosed and sheet steel fabricated.

Figure 4.4D - Sub Switch Board Box is mounted on the wall in electrical riser.

Sub-switch board consists of circuit breakers and bus bars. Circuit breakers functions are

almost same as fuses. Circuit breakers are able to protect for high current incomes and

feeders power supply. Busbars is function as transmit high electrical current in a

distribution panel. Busbars connect switchgear t clear faults and de-energize equipment.

Figure 4.4E - Details of distribution panel.


c) Generator Set

The generator sets provide adequate power and supply for the entire building to run

under emergencies such as fire and also as a standby system where it is always

ready to power the building. The generator will start running automatically when

there is a power failure.

Figure 4.4F - Gen-set room in Giant Mall.

d) Transformer

Transformer room is where the step-down transformers are placed. A transformer

is device that changes or transformers alternating current (ac) of one voltage to

alternating current of another voltage. A varying current in the transformer’s primary

winding creates a varying magnetic flux in the core and a varying magnetic field

impinging on the secondary winding. A “Danger” sign is placed on the door of

transformer room.

Figure 4.4G - Transformer room in Giant

Mall.


e) Electrical Conduit Tee

Conduit can protect the cable physical damage and heat. PVC electrical conduit is

rigid and lightweight which is durable and readily cut.

Figure 4.4H - Electrical Conduit Tee.

f) Substation

Substations transform voltage from high to low, or the opposite, or perform any of a

few other essential capacities. Between the generating station and consumer,

electric power may flow through several substations at different voltage levels.

Figure 4.4I - Substation in Giant Mall.


5.0 Part 3 & 4 (Problems and Recommendations)

5.1 Problems and recommendations: Fire Protection System

5.1.1 Problem and recommendation of passive fire protection system

During the visit, we observed that there were some problems of the passive fire protection

system in the Giant Kelana Jaya Mall. There are no maintenance and replacement of the

damaged systems.

First and foremost, refer to the figure 5.1.1.A, the floor of escape route is cracked and

some holes are formed, although the escape route fulfils the requirement of the UBBL

Article 169. We can observe that the maintenance was done before, but the holes still

remain and do not cover properly. As the fire occurs, the occupants would escape to the

ground floor from the second floor, there are big possibility that they will fall down as the

floor is not smooth enough for them to run to the safety place.

The figure 5.1.1.B shows that one of the nosing of the staircase is broken. If the occupant

walks down from the stair, especially a kid, they may get hurt by the sharp surface of tiles.

The rubbish is thrown at the staircase will obstruct the occupant to escape or fall down. So,

we recommend the operator of the building should provide the maintenance to cover the

holes on the floor by using the suitable grade of the concrete to perform a straight and

smooth solid walkway. New nosing tile is replaced. The cleaner should clean the staircase

regularly, according to working time schedule.

Figure 5.1.1B Figure 5.1.1A

Problems & Recommendations 44

Secondly, we can observe from the figure 5.1.1.C, the handle of the fire door is missing.

The handle must be intended against the fire such as stainless steel. The replacement

should be done as soon as possible to make sure the door is operated normally in order

to provide the basic security and safety (Figure 5.1.1.D).

Figure 5.1.1C Figure 5.1.1D

Moreover, we can observe that there is no signage or ‘crack’ signage on the fire resistant

doors (Figure 5.1.1.E, F, G). Based on the Malaysia Standard Section 7 Article 33.1.9

(page 148),

“All fire doors other than lift entrance doors should be marked with the appropriate fire

safety sign conforming to MS 982 according to whether the door is to be kept closed when

not in use. Fire doors to cupboards and to service ducts should be marked on the outside.

All other fire doors should be marked on both sides.”

The main purpose of the signage is to alert the customers and workers to keep the door

closed so as to fulfill the fire safety compliance. The extra sign on the surface of the push

bars of the fire door is used to instruct the users to push the door in the fire emergency.

So, we can recommend the operator to put a new signage on the fire door same as signage

on the figure 5.1.1.H.


Figure 5.1.1.E Figure 5.1.1.F Figure 5.1.1.G Figure5.1.1.H

Besides, the trolley and the letter box are placed in the fire escape route. It totally breaks

the Malaysian Standard Section 4 Article 10.4.3 (d) (page 46),

“All escape routes and escape doors (both internally and externally) can be kept free from

obstruction.”

The staircase should always clear and free of obstruction according to UBBL Article 110.

A signboard shall be placed on the wall to remind the users to keep the exit clear at any

circumstances (Figure 5.1.1.K). So, the mailbox and the trolley should be removed from

the escape route so that the maximum amount of occupants can fix into the safety route.

Figure 5.1.1.I Figure 5.1.1.J Figure 5.1.1.K


Furthermore, we found that there are some fire doors cannot close automatically as the

door closer is loosen (Figure 5.1.1.L). Section 7 Article 33.1.6.1 of the Malaysian Standard

states that, “Fire doors can only operate correctly if they are fully closed at the time of fire.

It is, therefore, normally necessary for them to be fitted with a self-closing device.”

In this situation, we recommend the owner to replace a new door closer (Figure 5.1.1.M)

to make sure all the self closure devices operate normally, then the fire doors can fully

closed and form a fully protective barrier in the fire event.

Figure 5.1.1.L Figure 5.1.1.M

In addition, the fire resistant door surface is broken. Refer to figure 5.1.1.N, the paint is

shed off. Section 7 Article 33.1.1 of the Malaysian Standard states that,

“The fire door should have function to protect escape routes from the effects of fire”

The fire door is used to prevent the spreading of fire or smoke to the safety route. A good

condition fire door is to ensure it reaches the fire resistance capability. The door should be

under maintenance or repaint it to ensure it can withstand more longer when fire occur.

We recommend the Intumescent paints for painting the old timber fire door. The purpose

of this paint is to protect all types of materials from the heat generated by the fire as it

forms an insulating coating. It is also known as fire resistant paints. It can be used for

internal and external structures. Figure 5.1.1.P shows the example of Intumescent Paint.


Figure 5.1.1.N Figure 5.1.1.O Figure 5.1.1.P

There is no fire exit stair signage through whole escape route (Figure 5.1.1.Q). Section 5

Article 16.4 of the Malaysian Standard states that,

“Every doorway or other exit providing access to a means of escape, other than exits in

ordinary use (e.g. main entrances), should be distinctively and conspicuously marked by

an exit sign in accordance with MS 983. Final exit levels from stairs should be clearly

marked as such, particularly where the exit opens off a stair that continues down or up

beyond the level of the final exit.”

So, we recommend all the fire exit stair signature should be placed on the wall to inform

the occupants of where is the final exit (Figure 5.1.1.R).

Figure 5.1.1.Q Figure 5.1.1.R


From the observation, we found that the lift didn’t have the sign board to warn the occupant

from using the lift when a fire emergency occur (Figure 5.1.1.S). Malaysian Standard

Annexe K (page 388) (i) mentioned about,

“Prohibition signs are used to prohibit behavior likely to increase or cause danger.”

So we recommend that the sign “In the event of fire do not use this lift”, shall be displayed

on the visible area or beside the lift to get the occupants’ attention. (Figure 5.1.1.T)

Figure 5.1.1.S Figure 5.1.1.T


5.1.2 Problem and recommendation of active fire protection system

Active fire protection systems such as water sprinkler and fire extinguisher are commonly

used in the industries for protection. They are used to control or extinguish the fire. Based

on Draft Malaysian Standard 11M001R1 clause 7.4, fire protection systems might not

provide for the continuity of the fire safety strategy if they are not regularly and properly

inspected, tested or maintained. However, during the visit to Giant Kelana Jaya Mall, I

found out that there are several problems with some of the active fire protection systems

inside the mall.

Firstly, the hose reels are not being sited in an accessible and appropriate position

because there are a lot of obstructions surrounding them as shown from the pictures below:

According to Malaysian Standard MS 1489-1:1999 clause 15.2.1, hose reels should be

sited in prominent and accessible positions at each floor level adjacent to exits in corridors

on exit routes, in such a way that the nozzle of the hose can be taken into every room,

having regard to any obstruction. In this case, when there is an occurrence of fire, it will

definitely take the fire fighter some time to reach the hose reel due to the obstructions

nearby, hence more human lives will be threatened. Therefore, in order to prevent

something miserable from happening, we strongly recommend the management to remove

Figure 5.1.2.A Figure 5.1.2.B


those obstructions such as the trolleys as seen in figure 5.1.2.A from obstructing a person

to reach the hose reel.

In addition, I also found out that there are a lot of wastage being disposed around the fire

protection systems.

People are taking this for granted which is a very incorrect act. This act will lead to

damages of quality of the fire protection systems. In this situation, I suggest that the

cleaning services of the mall must be improved. Also, a sign board of ‘please do not simply

litter’ or ‘no littering here’ like figure 5.1.2.E can be added as well.

Figure 5.1.2.C Figure 5.1.2.D

Figure 5.1.2.E


Moreover, the workers of the mall have treated the closet(figure 5.1.2.F) and room(figure

5.1.2.G and figure 5.1.2.H) for storing the fire protection systems such as hose reel and

fire extinguisher as their own storage space to keep unnecessary objects.

All of these objects can be considered as obstructions during the occurrence of fire. As

mentioned earlier, these obstructions will delay the time of fire being put out when a fire

occurs. Thus, the mall must set up a strict management system to inform every worker of

the mall to locate their working tools and personal belongings in a proper corner. This may

help to improve the aesthetic value of the mall as well.

Figure 5.1.2.F Figure 5.1.2.G Figure 5.1.2.H


Next, most of the water sprinkler heads inside the mall are in really bad condition.

Figure 5.1.2.I, figure 5.1.2.J and figure 5.1.2.K show us the corrosion of the water sprinkler

heads. However, the issue is being ignored by the management office as those rusted

water sprinkler heads are still not being serviced or replaced yet. This can lead to all sorts

of problems, including leaking heads, damaged pipes as well as outright failure.

Furthermore, if the water sprinklers fail to function properly when the mall is on fire, the fire

may spread very quickly and uncontrollably, thus safety of the occupants will be affected.

As a result, building owner is responsible for replacing any sprinkler component that is

rusted or corroded. I also suggest the management to contact the specialists to perform

the repairment of the fire sprinkler system as soon as possible.

Lastly, when I entered one of the emergency exit inside the mall, I realized that there was

a fire extinguisher being placed on floor as shown in figure 5.1.2.L and figure 5.1.2.M.

Figure 5.1.2.I Figure 5.1.2.J Figure 5.1.2.K


Figure 5.1.2.M Figure 5.1.2.L

According to BS 5306-8:2000, fire extinguisher should be sited as below:

In a conspicuous location that is easily accessible.

Not in cupboards or behind doors.

Not above cookers or other heat emitters, or in any place of excessive heat or cold.

Hung on wall brackets within easy reach, not placed on floor.

Carrying handle 1 metre above floor for heavier extinguishers (liquid based) and 1.5

metres for others.

Along escape routes near to a door leading to a place of safety.

Positioned in a wall recess so as not to obstruct general movement.

A maximum distance of 30 metres from the site of a possible fire.

Repeated location on each storey.

The situation seen from figure 5.1.2.L and figure 5.1.2.M has offended some of the points

stated above because the fire extinguisher is not being hung on wall bracket within easy

reach but placed on ground. Fire extinguishers have avoidably to be kept on ground or

floor in condition where dampness may cause corrosion to them. Apart from that, the

extinguisher from figure 5.1.2.L and figure 5.1.2.M is sited near the emergency exit where

it may obstruct the general movement of the people. Hence, the fire extinguisher should

be removed away and hung back to the wall brackets immediately. The management

should also perform periodical check on every fire extinguisher to ensure that they are in

good condition.


5.2 Problems and recommendations: Vertical Transportation

5.2.1 Problem 1

The mall that we choose for our assignment is Giant Mall which is located at Kelana Jaya.

This shopping mall does not provide passenger elevator to the customers but have the

freight elevator. Although the passengers can use the freight elevator to reach the desired

floor level, the freight elevator is located far from the crowd. In addition, the freight elevator

is not showing on the floor plan of the shopping mall and it will be difficult for the customers

to find out. So, it is not convenience for the disabled people or old people to visit this mall

as escalator and travelator are not suitable for transporting wheelchairs and baby carriages.

Figure 5.1.2A –The floor plans of Giant Mall only show the location of escalator and

travelator.


Recommendation

According to UBBL 124, stating that “For all non-residential buildings exceeding 4 storeys

above or below the main access level at least one lift shall be provided”. Therefore, I will

recommend the wheelchair accessible escalator to Giant Mall in order to solve accessibility

problems for disabled people. Nowadays, this systems are commonly used at the public

space in many countries, especially train stations and airport. For example, Japan train

stations, Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA2).

How is it works?

The concept of this escalator is similar to the normal escalator design. The only thing that

is changed is when a disabled people who uses a wheelchair needs to use the escalator,

the staff need to help them to press a button to make three steps of the escalator move

together vertically to form a flat platform that can accommodate the wheelchair. Electric

wheelchair users also can use it. Once the user is on the platform with the wheelchair, the

escalator will move until the user reaches the end. When the user leaves the escalator,

the platform will convert back into three independent steps.

Figure 5.1.2B – Since some places do not have lift or wheelchair accessible escalator, the

passengers are being compelled to use dangerous way to reach the desired floor level. It can

cause injury to himself as well as the passengers behind.


User safety is another important element of the design. While the approximately 5cm block

can prevent the wheelchair from moving forward. The escalator also includes a backup

battery system to supply energy in the case of a power cut when the user is in the middle

of the trip so that the user will always be able to reach their destination without problems.

Figure 5.1.2E – The approximately 5cm block prevent the

wheelchair from moving forward.

Figure 5.1.2C - The three steps move together vertically

to form a platform that can accommodate the wheelchair. Figure 5.1.2D – The wheelchair

accessible escalator used in

Japan.


The advantages and disadvantages of wheelchair accessible escalator

Advantages:

It is cost effective as it can save the money to install the elevator and solve the

problem of accessibility for disabled people.

Saving the space of installing elevator instead of using wheelchair accessible

escalator.

Disadvantages:

The process takes 1-2 minutes and normal passengers cannot use during the

operation.

It requires help from the staff to press the button if the passengers are not able to

press the button.


5.2.2 Problem 2

The escalator or travelator safety signage provided beside the escalator are not sufficient.

The safety signs are important as they inform the public of the directions and cautions

while using elevators or travellator to ensure passenger safety.

Figure 5.2.2B - The escalator

safety signage in Giant Mall only

provide the basic safety

information.

Figure 5.2.2A - The escalator and travelator safety signage provided are not sufficient.


Recommendation

The relevant department should add some additional safety signage beside the escalator

or travelator in order for the public to increase their safety awareness when using the

escalator or travelator.

According to figure 5.2.2C (right), the 10 safety messages signs and symbols should apply

for the escalator and travelator:

Please use lift provided – with lift in blue circle mandatory symbol.

Hold handrail – with hand holding graphic in blue circle mandatory symbol.

Children must be supervised – with parent and child in blue mandatory circle symbol.

No wheelchairs – with wheelchair in red prohibition circle.

No prams or strollers – with pram in red prohibition symbol.

No motorized mobility equipment – with mobility scooter in red prohibition circle.

No trolleys – with shopping trolley in red prohibition symbol.

Keep feet away from sides – with person’s foot in red prohibition sign symbol.

Caution Crocs shoes – with shoe symbol in yellow safety triangle

No sitting or leaning on handrail – with persons in red prohibition symbols.

Figure 5.2.2C – Escalator safety guide can also be added to the safety signage. (left)

The example of completed safety signage. (right)


5.2.3 Problem 3

Noisy operation problem occur in the travelator which located near to KFC. Although all

travelator will generate some noise, the level of noise generated should be relatively

uniform throughout the system, and not increase over time. Squeaks, vibrations, and

rubbing noises are usually the result of excessive component wear or improper adjustment.

The noise produce in this particular travelator is relatively high compare to other travelator

in the building.

Recommendation

Proper maintenance should be carry out. The maintenance officer should rate the noise

generated by the travelator relative to other travelator. So that necessary maintenance can

be carry out.

Figure 5.2.3A - Shown the location of travelator in the floor

plan.


5.2.4 Problem 4:

Although the overall maintenance of the elevator is good, there is still a slightly problem

occur in the interior part of the elevator cab which is the paint painted in the elevator started

to fall apart. This will affect the aesthetic appearance of the lift.

Recommendation

The maintenance office should carry out a paint job to restore the aesthetic appearance of

the interior part of elevator cab.

Figure 5.2.4A - Show the interior of elevator cab and the red circle represent the area

need to be fix.


5.2.5 Problem 5 (Electrical)

When we visited the loading bay at Giant Mall, the elbow is uncovered and the connection

of the wires are loose. It is very dangerous as the wires will be exposed to rain water. Once

the wires expose to the water, it may cause electrical short circuit and affect the operation

of the building.

Recommendation

This is a serviceability problem so the relevant department can repair the elbow as soon

as possible to ensure the safety of the passengers as well as the staffs. I recommend them

to change the external elbows into stainless steel and below are the advantages and

disadvantages of stainless steel.

Advantages:

More durable than plastic and steel.

Stainless steel is corrosion resistant.

Longevity and reduce the costly maintenance and

replacement.

Disadvantages:

More expensive compared to plastic and steel elbow.

Figure 5.2.5A - The elbow at the loading bay is not covered and the wires will be exposed.

Figure 5.2.5B – Stainless steel

elbow and accessories.


6.0 Conclusion

Conclusion, the building systems that used in Giant Kelana Jaya Mall all we have learned

in this module. When the officer bring us walk around, at the time we have given some our

opinion to the problem like the hose reel is located too high, the electrical riser room didn’t

lock and others. Therefore, we wish the officer will take our suggestions in order to provide

better building service systems to the public. So building services is important to a building,

especially shopping mall, commercial block, school, and others. Nowadays people cannot

live without building services like telecommunication, air-conditioning and others services.

So, we have responsibility to take care those services especially those services in public

places.

Conclusion 64

df

7.0 Appendix

Project Schedule Proposal

29th Sept 2015 Approval of Letter of Requisition by school.

16th Oct 2015 Meeting 1- Arrange each group member’s job and make a

date for site visit.

23th Oct 2015 1st Site Visit and submit the letter to composite office.

26th Oct 2015 Meeting 2- Discuss each problems and make a date for 2nd

site visit.

30th Oct 2015 2nd Site Visit.

16th Nov 2015 Meeting 3- Discuss about the presentation’s power point.

21th Nov 2015 Meeting 4- Compile, final check up and blinding the report

24th Nov 2015 Rehearsal for presentation

25th Nov 2015 Presentation & Submission of assignment

Member’s Work Scope

Content Name

Acknowledgment Jenny Hoo Yee Tyng

Abstract Jenny Hoo Yee Tyng

Part 1 : Purpose of the building as case study Jenny Hoo Yee Tyng

Part 2 : Existing types of system Chiam Jia Ern

Khor Ka Nee

Part 3 & 4 : Problems and Recommendations

Hii Pai Ling

Liew Chia Niu

Na Yeow Sing

Ng Jia Nan

Conclusion Jenny Hoo Yee Tyng

Appendix Jenny Hoo Yee Tyng

Slide arrangement Na Yeow Sing

Appendix 65

8.0 Reference

GCH Retail Sdn. Bhd. [Online] Available at http://www.giant.com.my/contact-

us/contact.aspx (Accessed on 21th October 2015)

Escalator Safety Signage – custom made symbols. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://www.signblitz.com.au/portfolio/escalator-safety-sign/

Escalator Adapted Wheelchair. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.japan-

accessible.com/transport/train/escalator/escalator.htm

Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. "Student Designs Innovative Escalator That

Is Accessible To All Users." ScienceDaily 29 June 2009. Retrieved from

www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615152928.htm

James E. Piper “Handbook of Facility Assesmemt” 1 Jan 2004. Retrieved on 10

Nov 2015 from

https://books.google.com.my/books?id=rUD8OqqYZzoC&printsec=frontcover&sou

rce=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false

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urce=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false

Guide to Intumescent Paint and Fire Retardant Paint and Fire Resistant Coatings |

British Safety Standard BS 476. (n.d.). Retrieved November 21, 2015, from

http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/fire-retardant-paint.htm

Fire Sprinkler System Repair - Lumar Fire Protection. (n.d.). Retrieved November 23, 2015, from http://www.lumarfireprotection.com/fire-sprinkler-system-repair/

Draft Malaysian Standard. (n.d.). Retrieved November 21, 2015, from

http://www.sirim.my/srmc/documents/Sept-Oct-2014/11M001R1_PC.pdf

Fire-rated Door Preventive Maintenance Ensures Function - Facility Management

Fire Safety Quick Read. (n.d.). Retrieved November 21, 2015, from

http://www.facilitiesnet.com/firesafety/tip/Fire-rated-Door-Preventive-Maintenance-

Ensures-Function--25010

Corrosion in Fire Sprinkler Systems - Fire Sprinkler Corrosion. (n.d.). Retrieved

November 21, 2015, from http://ecscorrosion.com/faq/

MS 1489 Hose Reels - Documents. (n.d.). Retrieved November 21, 2015, from

http://documents.mx/documents/ms-1489-hose-reels.htm

References 66

http://www.giant.com.my/contact-us/contact.aspx

http://www.giant.com.my/contact-us/contact.aspx

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615152928.htm

https://books.google.com.my/books?id=rUD8OqqYZzoC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false

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https://books.google.com.my/books?id=xfwgBQAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false

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