A Study on the Evacuation Planning in the Multiplex Cinema

As multiplex theaters are increasing rapidly in number, concerns over the evacuation process in case of fire emergency are also increasing. The study investigates the users' awareness and recognition of evacuation route by the method of questionnaire, and analyzes the users' behavior in choosing the route by the simulation program called Simulex. Among others, findings indicate a vast majority of the users are unaware of the proper route in the emergency, yet anticipate to evacuate by it, instead of the entry/exit route that they are familiar with. This aspect, however, can be useful to provide the proper route of evacuation for the users, if an appropriate information is given that the entry/exit route is also used as an emergency egress. The simulation shows heavy congestion at the closer evacuation route from the exit, and distinctly less traffic at the farther means of egress. Based on this natural phenomenon, it is suggested that the emergency stair should be nearby and aligned with the exit from auditorium. Although the present building regulation only requires a minimum dimension at each route, there is a need to widen the passageway that is likely to be recognized easily and subsequently overcrowded in case of fire emergency.

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