Project Overview

Professional Systems Engineering, LLC is the fire protection consulting engineer for Alice Tully Hall’s fire curtain deluge system possible deactivation due to possibly detrimental activation in a false occurrence. The systems design was analyzed, as well as all detection systems as the activation would transition motorized acoustical clouds vertically, possibly causing operator interference.

PSE provided fire alarm and life safety engineering services for Lincoln Center in New York City. Diverse code requirements of building plan approval date, NYC fire codes, and NYC building codes required sifting through plans and system designs to appraise design concept.

In addition to the potential threat to operators, false activation of the deluge system would undoubtedly damage the rare materials used in construction. Through thorough research into the New York City Building and Fire Codes and in addition to fire modeling and response time calculations, a plan of action was developed and will be reviewed by FDNY and NYC DOB officials. The proposed actions, when brought to fruition, will mitigate the current risks without reducing the level of protection for the performers, staff, and audience within the theater.

Services Provided

Fire Protection Analysis and Renovations

  • Fire curtains analysis
  • Fire detection systems analysis
  • Deluge sprinkler analysis
  • Incipient smoke detention review
  • Sprinkler and heat detector activation calculations
  • NYC BC F1, F2, and A building code review