When did the concept of compartmentation in passive fire protection begin?

The concept of compartmentation in passive fire protection began in the late 1800s. This approach emerged as a critical fire safety measure designed to restrict the spread of fire and smoke within buildings. By breaking a structure into smaller, manageable sections or compartments, it allows for enhanced safety and protection of occupants, property, and the overall integrity of the building during a fire event.

During the late 1800s, industrialization and urban development led to increased awareness of fire hazards, prompting the introduction of building codes and regulations aimed at improving fire safety. This included the principles of compartmentation, which were instrumental in early fire protection strategies. As time progressed, these principles were further refined and integrated into modern building practices, but their foundational concept dates back to this earlier period.

The other periods mentioned—early, mid, and late 1900s—saw advancements and changes in fire protection strategies and technologies but did not mark the original inception of compartmentation as a concept.