Occupant interaction with signage systems is being introduced into evacuation
simulations through the newly developed concept of the Visibility Catchment Area or
VCA. In this article, we describe the concept of VCA and how it has been extended to
incorporate the presence of physical obstructions and termination distance. The VCA
concept is then linked to a prototype behavior model intended to represent the
occupant’s interaction with the signage system. The functionality and
performance of the newly developed model is then demonstrated through the simulation
of various evacuation scenarios within a hypothetical supermarket layout.
Computer based analysis of evacuation can be performed using one of three di4erent approaches, namely optimization, simulation and risk assessment. Furthermore, within each approach di4erent means of representing the enclosure, the population and the behaviour of the population are possible. The myriad of approaches that are available has led to the development of some 22 di4erent evacuation models. This review attempts to describe each of the modelling approaches adopted and critically review the inherent capabilities of each approach. The review is based on available published literature.People}people interactions, i.e. interactions with other occupants. People}structure interactions, i.e. interactions with the enclosing structure. People}environment interactions, i.e. interactions with the "re e!ected atmosphere, and possible debris.These interactions a!ect an occupant's behaviour, and therefore trigger the decision making process. This EVACUATION MODELLING REVIEW 385
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