Document Type : Original Article
Authors
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Passive Defense, Architectural Design Orientation; Passive Defense, Imam Hossein Comprehensive University (AS), Tehran, Iran.
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Passive Defense, Architectural Design Orientation; Passive Defense, Imam Hossein Comprehensive University (AS), Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The main objective of this research is to identify and assess the physical and environmental vulnerabilities (building architecture, site, and surrounding environment) of Hazrat Vali-e-Asr (AS) Hospital in Birjand against the threat of conventional airstrikes and to propose architectural solutions based on passive defense principles to reduce these vulnerabilities and enhance the resilience of this medical center. This applied research was conducted using a descriptive-analytical approach and a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) strategy. First, vulnerability assessment criteria were extracted from the literature; then, using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method and the opinions of 14 experts, the relative weights of the criteria in three areas—surrounding environment, site, and building—were determined. In the next stage, the existing condition of the hospital was examined through field observations, and the vulnerability level of each sub-criterion was scored using a five-point Likert scale. Finally, by integrating the AHP weights and field scores, the relative and overall vulnerability levels were calculated and analyzed. The results showed that the overall vulnerability of Hazrat Vali-e-Asr (AS) Hospital to airstrikes is at a "moderate" level (with a score of 4.190). The highest vulnerability pertains to the "main building" (score 5/124 - moderate level), primarily due to non-resistant façade materials, non-aerodynamic form, vulnerable windows, and inappropriate placement of critical sections. The "hospital site" (score 4/211 - moderate level) was also assessed as vulnerable due to the concentration of activities in one building, lack of multi-purpose open spaces and parking, and issues with site entrances. The "surrounding environment" (score 3/233 - low level) had the best condition compared to the previous two areas, and its conditions were suitable based on passive defense principles; however, challenges such as the traffic-congested distance to the nearest fire station and traffic adjacent to main arteries were its weaknesses. Therefore, it can be concluded that the main hospital building requires more immediate actions. Proposed architectural solutions include strengthening facades and windows, improving the building form, relocating critical sections to safer areas, securing entrances and long corridors, increasing dual-purpose green spaces, increasing parking spaces, increasing access routes, and reinforcing the perimeter fence on the site. Implementing these solutions can significantly increase the hospital's resilience against aerial threats and help ensure the continuity of vital services in critical situations.
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