Commissioning Failures in Integrated Life Safety Systems (FA + HVAC Shutdown + Elevators): A Multi-Site Case Study Based on Field Testing and Authority Inspections

Abstract

This study investigated commissioning failures in integrated life safety systems, specifically focusing on fire alarm (FA) systems, HVAC shutdown mechanisms, and elevator recall operations across multiple building sites. A quantitative multi-site case study design was employed using commissioning records, field testing logs, and authority inspection reports collected from 42 building projects. The dataset included key variables such as system complexity, number of integrated subsystems, device counts, failure frequencies, response times, and inspection outcomes. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate patterns of commissioning performance and identify key determinants of system reliability. The findings revealed a total of 786 recorded deficiencies, with communication failures accounting for 28.6% and integration failures representing 26.1% of total issues, indicating that cross-system interaction was the primary source of commissioning challenges. Logic-related and equipment failures contributed 22.4% and 22.9%, respectively. The mean number of failures per site was 18.72, with high-complexity systems exhibiting significantly higher averages of 26.38 failures compared to 12.94 in low-complexity systems. Response time analysis showed a mean system response of 7.84 seconds, with delayed performance observed in more complex systems. Initial inspection pass rates were recorded at 57.1%, while 42.9% of sites required corrective actions, with an average resolution duration of 16.4 days. Statistical analysis demonstrated strong correlations between system complexity and failure frequency (r = 0.71), as well as significant predictive relationships identified through regression modeling (R² = 0.62). Comparative analysis further indicated that network-based systems and high-rise or healthcare buildings experienced higher variability and longer corrective durations. The results confirmed that commissioning performance was strongly influenced by system integration complexity and coordination quality. This study provided a quantitative framework for understanding commissioning failures and highlighted the critical role of integrated system validation in ensuring reliable life safety performance.