An Engineering Evaluation of Built-Environment Safety Standards in Private School Buildings: A Case Study of the International Knowledge School (IKS), Zawiya, Libya

Hameda Grabil; Muhammed S. Maddi

doi:10.65405/sjh.2.4.177

Authors

Hameda Grabil The Libyan Academy for Postgraduate Studies Author
Muhammed S. Maddi Libyan Authority for Scientific Research Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65405/sjh.2.4.177

Keywords:

school buildings, safety standards, safety applications, healthy environment, students' safety.

Abstract

School buildings must provide a safe built environment that protects students, staff, and visitors during normal operation and emergencies. This study presents an engineering evaluation of built-environment safety standards at the International Knowledge School (IKS) in Zawiya, Libya, using a mixed-methods case study approach; site inspections, dimensional measurements, staff interviews, and questionnaires; assessed against the International Building Code (IBC) and NFPA standards. While the building largely complies with international standards, a converted basement theater was found non-compliant on multiple counts: its 70 m² floor area falls 18 m² short of the 88 m² required for its 71 fixed seats; it lacks measurable ventilation; and its 50 m egress travel distance exceeds the 46 m maximum for non-sprinklered occupancies. Additional deficiencies were identified building-wide, including inward-opening exit doors and the absence of fire alarms, smoke detectors, and emergency lighting. The study proposes practical engineering recommendations to improve safety in private educational facilities in Libya.

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