Assessment of passive fire protection measures for fire safety in modern public market buildings: A case study of Kisutu international and Magomeni markets, Dar es Salaam. Tanzania

This study evaluates passive fire protection (PFP) n Kisutu International and Magomeni markets, Dar es Salaam, using a mixed-methods design (261 traders, fire officers, management). Findings show a marked disparity between regulations and practice: fire officers estimated—based on professional judgment rather than systematic incident record analysis—that approximately 70% of fire incidents intensified due to inadequate compartmentalisation. Overall compliance with key PFP elements ranged from 18% (fire-rated openings) to 76% (electrical protection) in Kisutu, and from 25% to 81% in Magomeni. A significant awareness gap exists (36% passive vs. 87% active measures). Regression analysis revealed that awareness of passive measures (odds ratio = 3.2, p < 0.01) and observed compromises in circulation space (odds ratio = 2.8, p < 0.05) significantly predicted perceived fire spread probability. Systemic shortcomings include narrow inspection coverage (only 20% involving passive elements), knowledge gaps, and procedural delays. The study extends socio-technical perspectives to fire safety governance and underscores needs for dedicated safety roles, revised inspection protocols, and community training in urbanizing contexts.