Performance-based fire safety assessment of UNESCO heritage structures: CFD simulation of Gothic timber carpentry in Our-Lady Cathedral of Tournai, Belgium

A performance-based fire safety assessment of the Gothic timber carpentry in Notre-Dame Cathedral, Tournai, reveals that electrical fires can rapidly lead to flashover if unchecked. The study, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, found that natural ventilation through windows mitigates heat buildup but is less effective than compartmenting electrical cabinets to limit fire and smoke propagation. This approach balances modern safety needs with the preservation of UNESCO heritage structures, offering actionable recommendations for similar sites while adhering to the Venice Charter's guidelines on interventions.

Domgue Kamwa, L. I., Descamps, T., & Datoussaid, S. (2026). Performance-based fire safety assessment of UNESCO heritage structures: CFD simulation of Gothic timber carpentry in Our-Lady Cathedral of Tournai, Belgium. International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, 17(5), 625–640. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijdrbe-09-2025-0135