What factors are considered in performance-based design according to NFPA 13?

In performance-based design according to NFPA 13, factors such as fire load, smoke control, and sprinkler response time are critical because they directly influence the effectiveness of the fire protection system in mitigating fire hazards.

The fire load refers to the total amount of combustible material within a space, which helps determine the potential fire intensity and duration. Smoke control is essential to ensure that smoke does not spread uncontrollably, affecting occupant safety and visibility. Lastly, sprinkler response time is vital; it measures how quickly the sprinklers activate to combat a fire once it starts, which can significantly impact both property damage and life safety.

Together, these factors allow for a comprehensive evaluation of a building's fire safety in a way that traditional prescriptive measures may not fully encapsulate, enabling a tailored approach to fire protection that responds to specific conditions of each unique building.