Background and History

This chapter provides an overview of the progress made in fire prevention in buildings over the past two centuries, with a focus on the significant advancements in the last 100 years. It briefly covers the evolution of building codes and fire safety codes, along with changes in construction methods and materials. Key developments in fire and building codes are examined, in addition to a broader shift in the prioritization of fire safety in buildings. The chapter also highlights the 2019 Notre-Dame Cathedral fire, highlighting the fire risks linked to construction practices and subsequent improvements, as well as the profound impact the fire had on the world.