Mayplas, a specialist in passive fire protection, acoustic and thermal insulation for the housebuilding industry, has introduced two new products. The new Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit add to Mayplas’ comprehensive portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications. The new Party Wall Head System provides
ASSA ABLOY and Lorient are excited to announce their debut at the UK’s fastest-growing fire safety exhibition, the Fire Safety Event, taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 8th to 10thApril 2025. Located at stand 4/G30, these industry leaders will exhibit a complete range of fire door hardware and sealing
Allegion UK, a pioneer in fire safety hardware and manufacturer of ‘Briton’ door controls, has expanded its library of customer support materials with new installation videos for its highly popular 2003 and 2003V surface mounted door closers. Allegion’s newly published video series provides customers with an illustrative set of installation
Hochiki Europe, a leading provider of innovative fire detection and life safety solutions, is proud to announce it has been named Fire Detection Company of the Year by Building and Facilities News. This prestigious award recognises Hochiki Europe’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and reliability in the fire safety industry. Building
Technical Director of Promat Nigel Morrey has been recognised with a lifetime award for his commitment to fire safety at the Association for Specialist Fire Protection Awards. Recognising over three decades of commitment to improving standards in passive fire protection and raising awareness of the importance of this in protecting
Significant investment in product development and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing. Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers are crucial to fire
A major new build construction project in the heart of London, Mount Pleasant, required Keyfix’s market-leading and A1 fire-rated Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT) to ensure it was future-proofed for many years to come. The £45 million project, overseen by main contractor and developer, McAleer & Rushe, involved the
JCB Fire Ltd, a leading fire alarm contractor, recently partnered with Hochiki to supply and commission a state-of-the-art fire detection system at Costa Coffee’s brand-new flagship store at Solihull’s Touchwood Shopping Centre for their long-standing client Otec Electrical Limited. Costa Coffee, a beloved British coffeehouse chain, has become synonymous with
JELD-WEN, one of the UK’s leading doorset manufacturers, has launched a new RIBA-accredited CPD training course which outlines the key considerations for enhanced fire doorset specification and better fire safety. The course, titled ‘Four Steps to Better Fire Doorset Specification and Long-Term Fire Safety’, focuses on the crucial role that
A comprehensively revised Code of Practice for the selection of building hardware for fire-resisting and escape door assemblies and doorsets has been published by The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF). This new edition, issue No. 5, is the first revision in more than
Mayplas, a specialist in passive fire protection, acoustic and thermal insulation for the housebuilding industry, has introduced two new products. The new Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit add to Mayplas’ comprehensive portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications. The new Party Wall Head System provides fire protection compartmentation at the party wall junction. Installed together as per Mayplas’ Installation Guide, the two-component system – a party wall head cap and a tile batten barrier, achieves 60 minutes fire integrity and insulation tested to the principles of EN 1363-1:2012 and EOTA TR31:2008 and independently assessed in accordance with BS 476-20:1987 and BS 476-22:1987. The system addresses Building Regulations requirements to maintain the continuity of fire resistance between a compartment party wall and the underside of the roof covering, so preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Mayplas’ new Therma Soffit product also works at the party wall junction providing thermal insulation within the soffit. It is available in two thicknesses, 100mm and 150mm, facilitating required thermal resistance values (Approved Document L) and providing resistance to the passage of sound synonymous with stone mineral wool insulation (Approved Document E). These new products join Mayplas’ MP552 Cavity Stop Socks, MP556 Fire Stop Slab, MP551 Timber Frame Cavity Barriers and MP557 Acoustic Party Wall DPC Cavity Carrier, all recently tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021, to meet a wide range of housebuilders’ specialist insulation needs. “Builders are putting fire safety first and foremost. Our new Party Wall Head System together with our existing passive fire protection range addresses that need,” explains Michael Hunter, Mayplas’ Technical Director. “We now provide a comprehensive solution for realising passive fire protection, for reducing heat loss and for minimising sound transmission in both timber frame and masonry construction to help housebuilders create protected, energy-efficient and comfortable homes.” New technical data sheets are available at: www.mayplas.co.uk/housebuilding-solutions Mayplas is a member of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection and the Structural Timber Association. An insulation specialist for over 40 years, Mayplas manufactures a range of fire, acoustic and thermal insulation products at its facility in Bury, Greater Manchester, ideally located for distribution throughout the UK. Mayplas can accommodate virtually any insulation specification, working with architects, contractors, developers, distributors and merchants. Mayplas is part of the Performance Technology Group. www.mayplas.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ASSA ABLOY and Lorient are excited to announce their debut at the UK’s fastest-growing fire safety exhibition, the Fire Safety Event, taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 8th to 10thApril 2025. Located at stand 4/G30, these industry leaders will exhibit a complete range of fire door hardware and sealing system solutions. Spanning an impressive 84SQM, the stand will highlight the critical role of door hardware and intumescent sealing systems in fire safety, showcasing how these components safeguard lives and property. Engaging Experiences and Live Demonstrations Experience the power of fire safety in action! Watch compelling fire test footage that vividly demonstrates the critical importance of properly specified and installed intumescent sealing systems. See firsthand the dangers posed by unprotected ironmongery and inadequate seals with mini burnt doors on display. Attendees can also witness the transformative reactions of various intumescent materials and discover their suitability for different fire safety applications. Interactive Zones and Product Showcases Visitors will embark on a journey through ASSA ABLOY and Lorient’s comprehensive fire door solutions guided by their highly experienced teams. Full-sized door models will showcase real-world applications of rigorously tested and certified products, highlighting the latest innovations designed to meet the diverse needs of various sectors. Interactive zones on the stand will provide attendees with a hands-on experience; and feature samples and miniature door models from a broad range of products such as: A key highlight at the event will be ASSA ABLOY’s Openings Studio®, an award-winning software solution featuring a powerful, asset tag-enabled, fire door inspection app. This end-to-end Golden Thread Solution streamlines the entire building lifecycle, from design and construction to ongoing compliance, maintenance, and future inspections. Insightful Seminars at the Innovation & Compliance Theatre During the event, ASSA ABLOY and Lorient will host two engaging seminars: Join Us at the Fire Safety Event Visit ASSA ABLOY and Lorient at stand 4/G30 during the Fire Safety Event 2025 to view the latest advancements in fire safety and building compliance. Lorient is part of the ASSA ABLOY Group. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Allegion UK, a pioneer in fire safety hardware and manufacturer of ‘Briton’ door controls, has expanded its library of customer support materials with new installation videos for its highly popular 2003 and 2003V surface mounted door closers. Allegion’s newly published video series provides customers with an illustrative set of installation and adjustment instructions for door mount pull, transom mount and parallel arm mount fixings across its leading product lines. With each video, Allegion aims to improve the accuracy of door closer fittings by delivering a comprehensive walkthrough of the 2003 and 2003V installation process, from the product unboxing to its fixing methods and measurements, as illustrated by Briton’s unique self-adhesive Accufit template system. With plans to further develop the video library to include step-by-step installation guidance for the Briton 2130B overhead closer, Allegion will shortly complete a suite of digitally curated support materials, which includes technical datasheets, product certifications, fixing templates and downloadable service and maintenance instructions. Speaking on the amibitions behind the new installation videos, John Fairhurst, business development manager at Allegion UK, commented: “Where the safety of buildings and their occupants is reliant on fire door hardware, we too often identify inaccurate installation as a leading cause for inadequate product performance. In order to prioritise fire safety, we believe it’s crucial to eliminate the issues assocated with incorrect hardware installation, and in adding short and engaging video content to our resources, we can further support our customers in this area. “Driven by our ongoing commitment to improving fire door safety standards, and following the success of our updated Accufit system for the 2003 and 2003V, we have also developed a new Accufit template for the Briton 2130B, which is available now and will feature in a standalone series of installation videos set to launch later this year.” To view the latest series of installation support videos from Allegion UK, visit: https://briton.co.uk/en/documentlibrary/installation_videos.html. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hochiki Europe, a leading provider of innovative fire detection and life safety solutions, is proud to announce it has been named Fire Detection Company of the Year by Building and Facilities News. This prestigious award recognises Hochiki Europe’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and reliability in the fire safety industry. Building and Facilities News highlighted Hochiki Europe’s extensive product portfolio, dedication to customer service, and continuous investment in research and development as key factors in their decision. The award also acknowledged the company’s contributions to advancing fire safety standards and its strong reputation within the building and facilities management sector. “We are incredibly honoured to receive this award from Building and Facilities News,” said Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director at Hochiki Europe. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality fire detection solutions that protect lives and property. This award inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in the fire safety industry.” Hochiki Europe provides comprehensive fire safety solutions to a diverse range of industries, including commercial property, healthcare, education, industrial, transportation and spaces of cultural and historical importance. This award further solidifies Hochiki Europe’s position as a global leader in the fire detection industry, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions and exceptional service to its customers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Technical Director of Promat Nigel Morrey has been recognised with a lifetime award for his commitment to fire safety at the Association for Specialist Fire Protection Awards. Recognising over three decades of commitment to improving standards in passive fire protection and raising awareness of the importance of this in protecting buildings and the occupants within, the ASFP presented Nigel with the Lifetime Contribution Award at the 2024 awards. As Technical Director at passive fire protection manufacturer Promat, Nigel has taken a leading role in the development and testing of passive fire protection systems over the past 22 years with Etex, including supporting the drive for improved standards in built-in fire safety. A passionate advocate for improved fire safety, Nigel has served as both Chair and Vice-Chair of the Association of Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), as well as being a member of their Council and Strategy Groups. He has also represented the organisation on Expert Panel D, Passive Fire Protection at the Loss Prevention Council Board (LPCB). Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, he was invited to chair the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) Fire Safety Group, and was a director of the Finishes and Interiors Sector for a number of crucial years in the industry. In his role at Promat, Nigel has led a drive to improve and demonstrate competency across all aspects of the company to highlight the importance of knowledge and experience in supporting accurate specification and installation of passive fire protection. This has included introducing training initiatives for all staff and ensuring all customer facing staff have passed, or are working towards, the IFE Level 3 qualification in passive fire protection. In presenting Nigel with the Lifetime Contribution Award, the ASFP highlighted his commitment to improving fire protection standards ASFP managing director Mike Ward said: “Innovation and promoting the highest standards in fire safety are integral to everything the ASFP stands for and Nigel Morrey truly embodies that. “He has shown commitment to both pushing for higher standards across the fire safety industry as a whole but also to raising awareness of fire safety – and building that into construction and the supply chain. This award is richly deserved for Nigel’s tireless commitment to keeping fire safety at the top of the agenda.” Nigel said: “Receiving this award is a real privilege in an industry, and an organisation, that works so hard to ensure that fire safety is a priority in all construction. “The ASFP does a fantastic job of promoting the work of the passive fire protection industry and it has been an honour to be able to work so closely with the organisation over the last two decades. “Amid great tragedy the industry has recently seen major change and it is vital that we continue to ensure that life-saving fire protection systems are subject to the tightest standards – and that the awareness is there of the need for passive fire protection and the correct specification and installation.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Significant investment in product development and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing. Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers are crucial to fire safety within rainscreen cladding on medium and high-rise buildings. Together they can achieve compartmentation within the void created by the rainscreen cladding. This then provides an effective barrier to the passage of hot smoke and fire behind the cladding system. The OSCB is installed horizontally to permit free flowing ventilation through the cavity in a vertical plane and the wall cavity barrier is fitted vertically to complete compartment lines. AIM’s six OSCBs allow the ventilation necessary within the wall construction to prevent problems of condensation allowing free airflow and drainage with either a 25mm or 44mm air gap. They can fill voids up to 425mm (or greater in particular circumstances). In the event of a fire, heat activates the OSCBs intumescent strip which expands quickly to close the cavity fully. They offer either a 60, 90 or 120-minute performance for both integrity and insulation confirmed by testing in accordance with ASFP Technical Guidance Document 19 and to the general principles of BS EN 1363-1:2020. For use in cavity voids up to 600mm AIM’s new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) range is available cut to size or in slab form. Available in three thicknesses, 75mm, 100mm and 125mm, they prevent the passage of heat, flame and smoke within the cavity for 30, 60 or 120-minute fire rating periods tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021. This rating makes these wall cavity barriers suitable for medium to high rise buildings. Both the AIM OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) products have third party certification issued by IFC Certification Ltd. “The wide scope of test evidence we now have for the use of our OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges gives us a compelling fire barrier package for rainscreen cladding,” explains Ian Exall, AIM’s commercial director. “With new technical literature covering the use of these two products together to achieve compartmentation in external cladding, we aim to make specification and installation more straightforward for specifiers, system providers and installers.” “We look forward to making further product development and testing announcements during the next few months.” AIM’s OSCBs and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges are suitable for both new build rainscreen projects and remediation work. AIM provides technical, specification, training and on-site support. New Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) and OSCB technical literature can be downloaded at: https://www.aimlimited.co.uk/cladding/ Part of the Performance Technology Group, UK-based AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing has over 30 years of experience in the design, testing and manufacturing of high-quality fire, thermal and acoustic barriers. The company produces a wide variety of bespoke insulation products to customer specification and a range of standard products. www.aimlimited.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major new build construction project in the heart of London, Mount Pleasant, required Keyfix’s market-leading and A1 fire-rated Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT) to ensure it was future-proofed for many years to come. The £45 million project, overseen by main contractor and developer, McAleer & Rushe, involved the transformation of the former Royal Mail Mount Pleasant sorting office in Farringdon, London, into 131 new mixed-tenure residential apartments across three blocks, varying in heights of four, eight, and 10 storeys. The development also includes external communal spaces, cycle storage, car park spaces, and a wellness centre comprising of a gym, sauna, swimming pool, and treatment facilities. With McAleer & Rushe keen to meet tight deadlines, speed of installation was imperative. As a result, Keyfix’s expertise and proven Pre-Formed Corner units were required from Phase Two of the project. Keyfix supplied 2,400m of its NCCT, including 1,830 pre-formed Corner Units and 9,500 Non-combustible Weeps. Keyfix’s sister company Keystone Lintels also provided Non-combustible Cavity Tray Lintels (NCCTL). Additionally, IG Masonry Support, another member of the Keystone Group, designed and manufactured Folded Angles, Folded Angle Piers, and Welded Masonry Support for Blocks B, C, and D of the development. This close collaboration of Keystone Group companies meant that our teams could offer a combined solution to McAleer & Rushe, ensuring that the slab edge remained decongested, safe-proofing the building. This level of collaboration helps limit downtime, reduces the level of re-work, speeds up the build programme, and ultimately reduces unnecessary costs. With future-proofing the building a major focus for McAleer & Rushe in case regulations become more stringent, Keyfix’s A1 fire-rated NCCT was chosen as it exceeds the current building regulations and does not contribute to fire loading. Furthermore, the enduring quality of the stainless steel ensures the system typically outlasts the lifespan of the building. McAleer & Rushe designed this build to achieve a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating and a Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 certification, so Keyfix’s sustainability and buildability-focused NCCT was the ideal choice as Keyfix’s NCCT is manufactured from Grade 304 austenitic stainless steel which is 100% recyclable. Keyfix’s NCCT also features a unique design that enables the stainless steel tray to be self-supporting across the cavity. This commercially-viable and rapid-build system is self-supporting and does not connect to the internal structure making it more thermally efficient, whilst avoiding issues typically associated with differential movement. Keyfix’s technical team actively supported the project by conducting site visits to monitor progress, participating in design team meetings, and delivering CPD webinars and toolbox talks. They also prepared a detailed component schedule and layout plan that integrated all three Keystone Group products on a single drawing, based on the architect’s plans. For more information about the Keyfix range of non-combustible solutions download the brochure, visit https://keyfix.com/ or for technical support call 028 8676 7508 or email info@keyfix.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
JCB Fire Ltd, a leading fire alarm contractor, recently partnered with Hochiki to supply and commission a state-of-the-art fire detection system at Costa Coffee’s brand-new flagship store at Solihull’s Touchwood Shopping Centre for their long-standing client Otec Electrical Limited. Costa Coffee, a beloved British coffeehouse chain, has become synonymous with high-quality coffee and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Situated in the popular Touchwood Shopping Centre, which attracts over 13 million visitors annually, the new flagship Costa required a fire safety system that would meet the demands of this busy retail hub and ensure the safety of all coffee lovers who visited. The installation included the integration of a new fire detection system that would interface seamlessly with the existing building’s infrastructure, including security and sprinkler systems and meet the company’s strict adherence policy to the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). JCB Fire Ltd selected Hochiki’s fire detection devices for their innovative features and because their open protocol capability ensures compatibility with various fire alarm control panels, providing flexibility in system design. Additionally, the devices are easy to install, reducing project timelines, and offer ultra-reliability, minimising false alarms. Hochiki’s ESP range of sensors simplifies the installation process with electronics-free mounting bases and easy addressing. The versatile sensors offer a variety of detection options, including smoke, heat, and multi-criteria detection as well as the ability to enhance visibility for individuals with hearing impairments and improve audibility of fire alarms ensuring that all occupants can be evacuated quickly and efficiently. Grant Wheeler, General Manager of JCB Fire, highlighted the benefits of partnering with Hochiki. “The successful installation at the Solihull store was completed in less than a week, by our client Otec Electrical demonstrating the effectiveness of our partnership with Hochiki. We were able to combine our expertise with Hochiki’s innovative technology ensuring the safety and security of Costa Coffee’s customers and staff in this brand-new store”. Hochiki’s ESP range, as demonstrated in this exciting project at Costa Coffee’s new outlet, offers a robust and reliable fire detection solution for retail and restaurant environments. To learn more about how Hochiki’s ESP range can elevate your fire safety measures, visit the Hochiki website or contact a local authorised distributor. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
JELD-WEN, one of the UK’s leading doorset manufacturers, has launched a new RIBA-accredited CPD training course which outlines the key considerations for enhanced fire doorset specification and better fire safety. The course, titled ‘Four Steps to Better Fire Doorset Specification and Long-Term Fire Safety’, focuses on the crucial role that fire doorsets play in a building’s fire safety strategy. Accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the CPD course is designed for architects and other decision makers with a responsibility for fire safety in a building project. During a one-hour seminar, delegates will learn about the key considerations that should be front of mind when looking to use fire doorsets in building projects to achieve compliance. Topics covered include an explanation of the current fire safety regulations, why it’s important to procure the correct fire doorset, and the installation and maintenance procedures that will ensure doorsets perform as intended. Rob Pace, Head of Sales and Business Development at JELD-WEN, commented: “Delivering better fire safety standards is a key issue within the industry, but we know that barriers to compliance still exist. “We have invested over £3million in the development, testing and certification of fire doorsets to ensure they meet the highest industry standards, however, the intended level of protection against the spread of smoke and fire will only be achieved if the product is installed and maintained correctly. “Meanwhile, regulatory changes have continued to evolve, so it is crucial that decision makers have a robust understanding about their current responsibilities, in order to achieve compliance. The launch of our new accredited CPD training course will play an important part in helping to increase understanding and improve awareness of proper fire doorset specification as part of a building’s wider fire safety strategy.” All JELD-WEN UK doorsets adhere to rigorous standards in testing, auditing and accreditation. These include the independent third party certifications such as PAS 24, Certifire and Certisecure, to offer complete assurance of fire door performance and protection. JELD-WEN’s new CPD training course is offered as a face-to-face or online session. Places are available to book via this link. For more information, visit www.jeld-wen.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A comprehensively revised Code of Practice for the selection of building hardware for fire-resisting and escape door assemblies and doorsets has been published by The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF). This new edition, issue No. 5, is the first revision in more than a decade, and represents a significant update and consolidation of previous guidelines to reflect the very latest legislative requirements and best practices in the industry. It provides an essential reference and resource for a broad spectrum of construction industry professionals including architects, building control officers, fire officers, responsible persons, duty holders, manufacturers, specifiers, and suppliers of building hardware and fire doors. GAI technical manager Douglas Masterson said: “The primary goal of this Code of Practice is to ensure that key stakeholders throughout the construction industry have access to the most current and comprehensive advice on selecting hardware that meets the stringent requirements for fire safety and escape routes. “While the Code is advisory, it is designed to provide robust guidance that aligns with the latest legal standards. “While compliance with the Code does not confer immunity from legal, local authority or insurance requirements, it will significantly enhance the safety and reliability of fire-resisting and escape door assemblies.” The Code addresses a wide range of legislative requirements, including: • Construction Products Regulations in both the EU and UK. • Building Regulations throughout the UK and Ireland, including the Building Regulations 2010 (England & Wales), Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004, Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012, and Building Regulations 1997-2021 (Ireland). • Workplace Fire Safety Legislation across the UK and Ireland, such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. • Equality Legislation applicable in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. Additionally, the Code considers third-party certification schemes and declarations of conformity with relevant standards, ensuring that the guidance provided is both comprehensive and up to date. The Code applies to building hardware used on timber fire doors with up to two hours of fire resistance and steel fire doors with up to four hours of fire resistance. The hardware items covered are categorised into essential items necessary for the successful operation of the doors (such as pivots and hinges, door closing devices, latch or locks, intumescent and smoke seals, and panic bolts), and optional (non-essential) items that could potentially cause door failure if not properly selected or installed. As a part of this revision there are several new sections relating to electric locking and access control, which are of increasing importance in the world of building hardware. Issue 5 of the Code replaces the previous issue 4, as well as all previous codes of practice published by both the Association of Building Hardware Manufacturers (now DHF) and the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers, all of which have been withdrawn to ensure that professionals are working with the most current and relevant information. DHF general manager Michael Skelding said: “This revision is the result of more than two years work by the teams at the DHF and GAI in conjunction with technical specialists at the leading companies in our industry. “The result should be seen as an essential reference document for anyone involved in the selection, installation and testing of building hardware and furniture for fire and escape doors.” Code of Practice: Hardware for Fire and Escape Doors edition 5 can be downloaded for free at www.firecode.org.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
