As the long-awaited ‘Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety’ by Dame Judith Hackitt was published last week, prompting much debate amongst the media, general public and industry alike, Bureau Veritas considers the long-term repercussions of the recommendations and calls for more to be done from a technical perspective.
Dame Judith Hackitt’s report on Building industry Regulations and Fire Safety: Building a Safer Future, due out this week, will expand on the December 2017 interim report which found that, “The current regulatory system for ensuring fire safety in high-rise and complex buildings is not fit for purpose. This applies
A huge fire which broke out at a recycling plant facility for the second time in two month was “an accident waiting to happen”, according to a councillor. The Daily Post reports that David Wisinger, Flintshire county councillor for Sandycroft and Queensferry, said that had the wind been blowing in
With furore building around the initial findings of the BRE report into the Grenfell Tower fire leaked to the London Evening Standard, Bureau Veritas has reiterated the critical importance of specification, construction methods and adherence to building standards in ensuring buildings are constructed correctly and appropriately going forward. The reported
With the increasing demands for firesafe materials across the construction industry, SIDERISE Nexus Core provides specifiers of architectural panels and doors with a firesafe and high strength insulation core that offers rigidity, flatness and exceptional structural performance. A truly firesafe structural insulation solution, SIDERISE Nexus Core (previously Lamatherm Nexus NXR)
On Wednesday, the 18th of April, HLM, the leading design and architecture company, will be presenting at a first of its kind ‘Fire Station Design and Construction Workshop’ at Weston in Cheshire. Professionals from the Emergency Services sector will gather together at a unique event to share knowledge in a
With technology making all of our lives easier (in theory at least), you’d think that fighting fires would be getting easier too. Yet this doesn’t seem to be the case. We see the pressures of global warming with wildfires in America and Portugal; tragedies such as Grenfell and the recent
Smoke Inhalation is the primary cause of death for victims of indoor fires. At design stage, building construction will plan fire safety around smoke and fire compartments using fire rated ducting as a means of smoke extraction to steer the smoke to a suitable outlet from the building. Smoke extraction
This April, the Fire Industry Manufacturer’s Expo (FIM Expo) is coming to Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol. The event is organised by the Fire Industry Association and helps to build the bridge between manufacturers of fire detection and alarm products and those in the services world. The expo is a
This week is Sprinkler Week and it is ironic that the week starts with the announcement of a massive fire in Daventry that saw the total destruction of a 400,000 square foot warehouse – a warehouse that was only a matter of months old. Built at a cost of over
As the long-awaited ‘Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety’ by Dame Judith Hackitt was published last week, prompting much debate amongst the media, general public and industry alike, Bureau Veritas considers the long-term repercussions of the recommendations and calls for more to be done from a technical perspective. Andy Lowe, director of building control at Bureau Veritas, comments: “The publication of the Hackitt Review comes as we approach the first anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire and alongside the commencement of the public inquiry into the tragedy; the scenes from which have displayed that the pain of all those affected has not dampened. For many, the Hackitt Review did not deliver what they had hoped and sparked somewhat of a public outcry due to the unexpected conclusion not to impose an outright ban on combustible cladding. Instead, the recommendations of the review focused on the need for a new regulator and a series of proposals to make high-rise flats safer to live in. “From a building control perspective, the Hackitt Review makes interesting reading. Many of the recommendations are encouraging in ensuring a more robust approach is taken to fire safety in the construction industry in the long-term and across all stages of development, from planning and construction to the occupational phases. However, the recommendations are aimed specifically at changes to the overall system rather than relating to the specific technical aspects of a building. The aspects of cladding in particular and the technical measures used to ensure that a holistic approach to fire safety in high rise buildings is achieved, needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. Key aspects such as the use of non-combustible cladding, sprinkler protection and the provision of two staircases for example, are of critical importance in achieving much-needed public confidence, as well as the need to address the existing building stock situation. “It is reassuring then that since the publication of the review, the Government has announced that it is considering going further than the recommendations put by Dame Judith Hackitt and will indeed look to ban the use of combustible materials in cladding on high-rise buildings. Based on the near universal response to the review, this would surely be met with overwhelming support and we are eager to see how the situation evolves in the coming weeks and months.” Bureau Veritas is a leading testing, inspection and certification company with a vast experience of the building control sector. Bureau Veritas Building Control UK combines technical expertise and market-leading systems with unrivalled industry experience to deliver building control services to some of the biggest names in construction. Through effective teamwork, a consistent approach and commitment to excellence, Bureau Veritas’ solutions go beyond just compliance – they can help to reduce costs and manage risk throughout the building lifecycle, from design stages through to site inspections and final certification – whilst giving designers confidence that the project will comply with Building Regulations and all relevant legislation. For further information, call 0345 600 1828 or visit www.bureauveritas.co.uk
Dame Judith Hackitt’s report on Building industry Regulations and Fire Safety: Building a Safer Future, due out this week, will expand on the December 2017 interim report which found that, “The current regulatory system for ensuring fire safety in high-rise and complex buildings is not fit for purpose. This applies throughout the life-cycle of a building, both during construction and occupation, and is a problem connected both to the culture of the construction industry and the effectiveness of the regulators.” The interim report identified six key areas for urgent action: regulation and guidance; roles and responsibilities; competence; process, compliance and enforcement; residents’ voice and raising concerns and Quality Assurance and products. Colin Lawson, Head of Product Development, Sales & Marketing, Tamlite Lighting comments: “There cannot have been anyone in the UK whose heart did not go out to the victims and the families of those killed in the Grenfell Tower fire on 14th June 2017. It will take many years to recover from the effects on the community, residents and the emergency services. It also deeply affected those in the construction industry and supply chain who share responsibility for the safety of our homes and places of work, along with local government, regulators and legislators. “At Tamlite Lighting we are most concerned with how the lighting industry can play its part in using its influence to ensure the highest levels of safety and accountability. Dame Judith’s interim report said that “primary responsibility for ensuring that buildings are fit for purpose must rest with those who commission, design and build the project”, but what does that mean in practice for the lighting industry? “The industry must play its part; it can’t sit back and wait for central government to legislate. We must come together with our colleagues across the lighting and construction supply chain to share knowledge, encourage ongoing training and testing, adopt best practice behaviours, and develop a fully-accountable system for the life-cycle of buildings as a whole and not just for our own separate areas of ‘responsibility’. We can’t just aim for minimum compliance, but provide leadership especially regarding responsibility and competence. “While the lighting industry already adheres to stringent Quality Assurance standards in which products are properly tested and certified, there needs to be clarity on where ultimate responsibility lies – with the designer, specifier, installer or building owner.” In addition the industry must be more proactive to ensure oversight of the quality of installation. According to the interim report “This is one area where England and Wales appears to be lagging behind many other parts of the world that require key personnel throughout the system to be properly trained, assessed and in many cases licensed to carry out specific roles.” Mr Lawson concludes, “It is up to all of us in construction, to play our part, to build a culture of responsibility, of doing more than cutting costs to the bone, or simply complying with the relevant regulations on safety or sustainability. As we near the first anniversary of this tragedy, it should go without saying that the events of that awful night in June 2017 should never be repeated.”
A huge fire which broke out at a recycling plant facility for the second time in two month was “an accident waiting to happen”, according to a councillor. The Daily Post reports that David Wisinger, Flintshire county councillor for Sandycroft and Queensferry, said that had the wind been blowing in a different direction, it could have been a “potential nightmare”. Around 60 firefighters battled the blaze at 300 Recycling Ltd in Flintshire. The site lies next to CamGas, a company which supplies gas bottles and bulk tanks for domestic gas, commercial gas, holiday park gas and autogas. It burned into the night, sending huge plumes of black acrid smoke across residental areas and affecting motorists. The blaze came just over seven weeks after another huge inferno which took hold of the same plant earlier this year. Cllr Wisinger, who told the Daily Post in March that he was “extremely concerned” by the blaze, said following Tuesday’s fire: “It was an accident waiting to happen. “I’ve had complaints from people working in the area and residents phoning me up saying they could see the danger. “The site is right next to a gas storage facility, which is very worrying. “They’re concerned about the sheer amount of plastic and tyres, which are highly flammable. “If this fire would have happened on a hot summer’s day and the wind would have been blowing towards the gas cylinder company next door, it could have been a potential nightmare.” Council chief executive Colin Everett said: “This incident was dealt with effectively on a multi- agency basis. “The council has no specific controlling planning powers over the site, but North Wales Fire and Rescue Service has provided advice on the site owner’s requirements to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. “Our Streetscene Teams provided assistance as required to North Wales Fire and Rescue Service yesterday and today as they dealt with the incident. “Officers from the council’s Public Protection Service will provide any appropriate advice, if requested, to Natural Resources Wales as they undertake their investigations of the site. “As public sector partners, we will work with the company to help prevent future incidents in the interests of public safety.” Original source Daily Post
With furore building around the initial findings of the BRE report into the Grenfell Tower fire leaked to the London Evening Standard, Bureau Veritas has reiterated the critical importance of specification, construction methods and adherence to building standards in ensuring buildings are constructed correctly and appropriately going forward. The reported findings of the leaked interim document focused on five potentially significant breaches of building regulations that contributed to the spread of fire at Grenfell Tower, specifically in relation to a refurbishment carried out between 2014-16. Areas of focus included the building cladding and insulation, as well as the design and installation of the windows and cavity barriers. Andy Lowe, director of building control at Bureau Veritas, comments: “Firstly, it’s important that we wait for the full BRE report to be published to understand the real implications of the findings of the investigation. It’s also crucial that these findings are reviewed in conjunction with the ‘Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety’ by Dame Judith Hackitt and alongside any changes to Government legislation that may arise as a result. “However, it’s always imperative to reiterate just how important it is to construct buildings correctly in accordance with building regulations, including at the specification stage to ensure that materials selected are appropriate and suitable for their intended use. This includes adequate inspection at every stage of the process to not only assess the suitability of the materials used but also that installation has been done correctly. “Benchmarking of key areas and photography of critical components is also recommended as best practise, along with thorough documentation to form part of a fire safety dossier that can be passed on to the fire risk assessor – this should also be made available to the relevant tenants association if applicable. “Any further alteration works should be reviewed against the original strategy for the building and obviously should still comply fully with safety requirements. Only with all these measures in place can we be satisfied that a building has been constructed and maintained to the highest standards. “It is our understanding and continued hope that when both the full BRE findings and the Hackitt Review are published that this approach to best practice is strengthened, to ensure long-term compliance with these vital aspects of fire safety.” Bureau Veritas is a leading testing, inspection and certification company with a vast experience of the building control sector. Bureau Veritas Building Control UK combines technical expertise and market-leading systems with unrivalled industry experience to deliver building control services to some of the biggest names in construction. Through effective teamwork, a consistent approach and commitment to excellence, Bureau Veritas’ solutions go beyond just compliance – they can help to reduce costs and manage risk throughout the building lifecycle, from design stages through to site inspections and final certification – whilst giving designers confidence that the project will comply with Building Regulations and all relevant legislation. For further information, call 0345 600 1828 or visit www.bureauveritas.co.uk
With the increasing demands for firesafe materials across the construction industry, SIDERISE Nexus Core provides specifiers of architectural panels and doors with a firesafe and high strength insulation core that offers rigidity, flatness and exceptional structural performance. A truly firesafe structural insulation solution, SIDERISE Nexus Core (previously Lamatherm Nexus NXR) lamella boards meet the performance requirements of modern industrial and commercial buildings being used in curtain walling systems, doors and volumetric building elements. They provide a cost-effective, pre-finished rigid core to be used wherever thermal, fire or acoustic insulation is required within a bonded composite panel. Nexus Core comprises high strength stonewool lamella with a uniform fibre structure. Precision manufacturing and tight tolerances means that manufacturers can use thinner facing materials that can now remain robust and aesthetically pleasing. As part of the patented Nexus process, the lamella undergoes lateral compression which eliminates all gaps within and between the lamella, thereby removing any weak points and creating a ‘true’ lamella board. This increases structural performance and produces a more homogenous core. The Nexus Core lamella boards are supplied with an open filament net facing to both sides to allow for structural bonding and also optimal handleability. Willian McDowell, Business Development and Product Manager of SIDERISE: “Whilst facades can be used to create a stunning architectural statement, it is essential these buildings are constructed to perform efficiently and safely. Nexus Core is made from European Fireclass A1 material which is resistant to temperatures in excess of 1000° C.” SIDERISE Nexus products use a unique patented process to produce a true structurally lamella board with optimal and tested fire, thermal and acoustic performance. Specifiers and building owners can then be certain these products will continue to perform after insulation, offering the best environmental conditions for those living and working in buildings, and to reliably protect in the event of fire. For further information about SIDERISE or for technical advice visit www.siderise.com or call 01656 730833
On Wednesday, the 18th of April, HLM, the leading design and architecture company, will be presenting at a first of its kind ‘Fire Station Design and Construction Workshop’ at Weston in Cheshire. Professionals from the Emergency Services sector will gather together at a unique event to share knowledge in a learning environment. During the workshop, design and construction professionals will carry out presentations in reference to finished and working projects. The event will provide a platform to network and discuss the challenges and opportunities of fire station design. HLM’s speakers at the event include Steven Lennon, Head of Emergency Services and Sarah Brady, Architect, who will discuss fire station design, landscape architecture and interior design. In addition, they will review the new Services Support Centres for Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service and the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service. “I am looking forward to discussing the benefits of digital design and construction techniques for clients, including BIM and virtual reality. I will also analyse what digital construction is, what the government’s vision is and the benefits it can deliver for fire and rescue services in developing and managing their estate,” said speaker Simon Bell, HLM Director. Other speakers present at the workshop include GearGrid, who manufacture PPE locker storage and specialist equipment storage for cylinders, hose and maintenance rooms, Ridge, presenting on Building Services Design and additionally Flowcrete, showcasing the importance of floor specification. HLM has assisted so far four fire authorities with the design of over twelve stations, with the NIFRS Service Support Centre, Belfast as one of its current projects. They have also completed two fire service headquarters, both with regional control centres and two detailed training facilities ranging from USAR to live fire facility. The ‘Fire Station Design and Construction Workshop’ is supported by the Fire Times publication and it will start at 10am with complimentary lunch and refreshments provided.
With technology making all of our lives easier (in theory at least), you’d think that fighting fires would be getting easier too. Yet this doesn’t seem to be the case. We see the pressures of global warming with wildfires in America and Portugal; tragedies such as Grenfell and the recent Kemerovo shopping centre fire; and the continued pressures on public services to save money and increase efficiency. This is not to mention unseen issues such as rising levels of obesity, which are forcing emergency personnel to adapt their training methods and invest in new equipment; or the rise of cheap construction and cramped conditions, due to growing populations and demand. In other words, something needs to change in the way fires are prevented, fought and managed. Here then are just a few examples of the technologies that could keep us safer in future. Wearable tech Firefighters would be the first to embrace tech that helps them do their jobs better. Unfortunately, they often can’t carry it. The average weight of standard issue equipment is between 10-12kg, meaning that any extra baggage could compromise their ability to navigate buildings and save lives. As a result, much of the focus of firefighting tech is now on compacting tools and utilising lightweight devices. Take for instance the thermal imaging camera, which allows firefighters to locate people and navigate fires through thick smoke. Instead of carrying a cumbersome bit of carried equipment, this information could be transmitted through the firefighter’s existing visor, either using augmented reality (AR) technology or a toggle for normal and thermal imaging camera views. Getting rid of the need for a camera would eliminate a distraction for the firefighter, and leave their hands free for more important tasks. The quick, seamless and hands-free transmission of data is a pivotal element in the future of firefighting. Some cities are already working on central databases of building information, which can be transmitted to firefighters to help them navigate the inside of a building, and assess its unique risks. Strangely enough, driverless cars may also help with this. The need for consistent 4G internet may improve signal quality within buildings for both data transfer and audio communication, which is often impeded in tower block and skyscraper fires. Strength and conditioning It isn’t just the fires that are likely to get tougher or more numerous; people may get harder to save, too. The obesity epidemic has already forced fire departments to train their crews differently, and to carry different kinds of lifting and hoisting equipment. It’s arguable that with this and the potential increases in the weight of equipment, firefighters will need to be fitter than ever, and capable of lifting greater weights. One technology that may assist with this is the exosuit. These wearable exoskeletons are designed to provide mechanical assistance for basic functions, such as walking or lifting objects. Think about the suit Ripley fights the xenomorph in at the end of Aliens, and you’ll be on the right track. The intended purpose isn’t that far off, either: not for fighting deadly predators, perhaps, but the intended purpose of heavy lifting with more dexterity than a forklift truck. Current exosuits are primarily being designed for warehouse workers to prevent injuries while lifting, as well as for elderly and disabled people to increase their mobility. But the benefits for emergency personnel are obvious. By assisting with movement and carrying extra weight, an exosuit could allow firefighters to shoulder more equipment, move more quickly and carry people more easily. The only barrier is to ensure that they are completely fireproof and infallible in emergency situations, so they never become more of a hindrance than a help. AI and simulation Smarter technology may not be the sole preserve of the firefighters; it may also come from the buildings. The sensors in ‘smart buildings’ are already revolutionising workplace productivity, saving energy and maintaining comfortable environmental conditions. Applying the same tech to fire prevention and management could radically decrease the impact of fires, as well as better preparing first responders to tackle a blaze. Building sensors can already detect fires in specific rooms, but communicating this is often a manual process on the part of fire wardens. Advanced sensors could show not only where the fire started but where it is and how hot it is burning. Moreover, early communication of this information could allow firefighters to predict the path of fires. AI modelling could pull from a database of building details (such as layouts and composition) to predict how the fire will spread in real time, and advise responders on where they should focus their efforts. Outside of an active fire situation, AI can also help us better analyse the conditions in which fires take place. We are still discovering how fires react in certain situations with different combinations of materials, as evidenced by the way the Grenfell fire subverted official guidelines to remain in the flats. Computer analysis could help to simulate fires that would otherwise be difficult or costly, and help inform building design and fire codes. Fire suppression We may be able to improve our understanding of fires, but we’ll still have to fight them sometimes. As a result, new technologies to improve the suppression of fires are highly sought after, and the focus of numerous competing startups. As it turns out, there may be better means to fight fires than the traditional use of water, foam and gases. One explosive (and rather counterintuitive) example is the use of ‘freeze grenades’. A container of controlled chemicals or powders can be set to break open at high temperatures, cutting out a fire at its heart – although this isn’t suitable everywhere. Perhaps more familiar are the attempts to redesign the humble fire hose. One proposed design is a ‘lance’ hose, which can supposedly fire through the brickwork of a building, spreading a fine mist across a larger surface area. Future firefighting tech isn’t just limited to these traditional substances, though. Two engineering students
Smoke Inhalation is the primary cause of death for victims of indoor fires. At design stage, building construction will plan fire safety around smoke and fire compartments using fire rated ducting as a means of smoke extraction to steer the smoke to a suitable outlet from the building. Smoke extraction is the evacuation of smoke and toxic gases, which could otherwise reduce human visibility and compromise the occupant’s safe exit, in the event of a fire. The correct application of Fire Rated Ductwork facilitates the escape of buildings occupants, minimises property damage and assists fire fighters in locating the source of the fire and extinguishing it. Smoke Extract and EN Standards Regulations Traditional test standards for BS 476 Part 24 required three different test scenarios, duct A (fire exposure from outside to inside), duct B (fire exposure from inside to outside) and duct C (smoke extract). The standard required the duct to maintain at least 75% of its cross sectional area (Integrity). The New EN 1366 tests include more stringent and robust criteria. It requires firstly that the duct has passed all tests mentioned in BS 476 above and more importantly, that the duct withstands testing to EN1366-8 (multi Compartment) and EN1366-9 (single Compartment) for smoke extract. The critical difference with this test is where the duct now must retain 90% of its cross sectional area. Following from this, BS EN 12101-7 has become a mandatory and harmonised product standard. CE marking of products with harmonised (hEN) standards became mandatory on the 1st of July 2013 as stated within the requirements of the European directive. Consequently smoke extract duct covered by product standard BS EN 12101-7 must be CE marked (DW144). The old standard BS 476 cannot support CE marking of construction products and has been withdrawn where a harmonised standard exists Breffni Air is Ireland and the UK’s leading specialist Ventilation Manufacturer and Contractor. We are currently working on large scale projects in the UK, Ireland and Europe across the Pharmaceutical, Construction and Telecommunications Industries. Breffni Air is proud to conform to all requirements of a fire duct manufacturer: Tested to the EN Standards at a UKAS accredited laboratory. Has ISO 9001 quality management systems for manufacture Carries out FPC (Factory Production Control) yearly assessed by a nominated body. has third party accreditation for the installation (FIRAS) CONTACT US Our highly qualified team of engineers makes all the difference. Please call our team on +353 (49) 433 6554 or email our technical estimating team about your project at info@breffniair.ie.
This April, the Fire Industry Manufacturer’s Expo (FIM Expo) is coming to Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol. The event is organised by the Fire Industry Association and helps to build the bridge between manufacturers of fire detection and alarm products and those in the services world. The expo is a fantastic place to meet manufacturers and network with other service professionals if you’re working in this niche but still buoyant area of business. The expo’s light and informal atmosphere is renowned for making those close connections and business partnerships due to its small size. Here, instead of wandering aimlessly between stands for hours, you can easily make all the connections you need within a relatively short period of time. A major advantage is that you can see all the products and get answers on how they all work, which is helpful if you’re unfamiliar with a particular area. There is still plenty at the expo even for a seasoned fire detection and alarm pro. The 17 confirmed exhibitors (and more on the way) will be showing a range of their products and with new ranges being developed, so it’s a good time to find out if there are any new products, or explore other manufacturer’s products that you might not have known much about previously. Aside from the exhibitors themselves, there is the added bonus of two free seminars. The first seminar, ‘BS 5839-1: 2017 – What’s changed?’ is presented by the FIA’s Technical Manager, Will Lloyd is known for his encyclopaedic knowledge of British Standards, and can provide expert advice on a wide range of fire detection and alarm issues. The seminar covers the latest major revision of the standard, BS 5839-1, and the differences between this version and the old 2013 version. Despite it being 2018, there may still be some aspects of the 2017 revision of this standard that you (or colleagues) may be unaware of. The update seminar covers a long list of areas including: Differences between the old version of BS5839-1: 2013 and the 2017 update Unwanted fire alarm signals Multi-sensor detectors in escape routes L3 and L2 systems The use of manual call point covers Places of ‘ultimate safety’ Manual call point locations Communications with the fire and rescue service Staff alarms Video fire detection Types of fire detectors and their selection Spacing and siting of automatic fire detectors Detector spacing and siting on honeycomb ceilings Siting of optical beam smoke detectors Ceiling height limits Cables, wiring, and other interconnections Inspection and servicing This is not a full and complete list but does give an indication of the level of depth that will be presented. The FIA is committed to improving professional levels throughout the industry and this seminar will provide plenty of insight into this complex subject area. The second seminar running at FIM Expo will be discussing the future of the fire industry. What levels of competency will be expected or needed in 2018 and beyond? In our current climate, where pressures on responsible persons/duty holders are rising, what will those potential clients be looking for in a fire detection and alarm service company? Entitled, ‘The future of qualifications in fire detection and alarm’, this is a good opportunity to hear from industry experts and ask questions about the movement of the industry over the next few years. This presentation will be presented by the FIA’s General Manager, Martin Duggan. Both seminars are fully CPD accredited and certificates will be available to pick up from the registration desk at the end. Details: 25th April 2018 Open 9.30 – 3.30pm Ashton Gate Stadium, Ashton Rd, Bristol BS3 2EJ Complimentary tea, coffee, and buffet lunch Free parking Free entry Seminar times 11am – ‘BS 5839:1 – what’s changed?’, presented by Will Lloyd, FIA Technical Manager 2pm – ‘The future of qualifications in the fire industry’, presented by Martin Duggan, FIA General Manager. Although the event is free to attend, spaces are limited and it’s best to register in advance to secure your space. Go to www.fim-expo.com to register.
This week is Sprinkler Week and it is ironic that the week starts with the announcement of a massive fire in Daventry that saw the total destruction of a 400,000 square foot warehouse – a warehouse that was only a matter of months old. Built at a cost of over £15million and designed with sustainability in mind (it achieved the global sustainability standard, BREEAM), it begs the question, why were sprinklers not included? To top it off, the week also ends with yet another fire at a builders merchants in Brighton. The issue with fire is that all too often we think it won’t happen to us and when it does it is too late to do anything about it. We also don’t always appreciate the impact it can have – but inconvenience is something that we are all too quick to react to. It was only a few weeks ago that many of us were struggling with the snow. When schools close due to bad weather for a couple of days it means disruption. Imagine if your child’s school closed due to fire damage. Imagine the disruption a long term closure or relocation will have on your child’s education? But then there is a double standard when you consider local authorities across England and Wales have fined parents more than £24 million for taking their children out of school during term time but don’t appear to mind if schools are disrupted in the event of fire. It has been estimated that fires in UK schools disrupt the education of 90,000 children and students every year. Who is picking up that tab and what are we doing about it? Well not enough. In 2016, only 30% of new schools were built with sprinklers. Sprinkler Week marks the launch of the NFCC’s (National Fire Chiefs Council) longer term plan to push for legislative change. It is also an opportunity to educate building owners and designers by dispelling the many myths surrounding sprinklers and help people understand their many benefits. Sprinklers save lives and reduce injuries. They protect firefighters who attend incidents and reduce the amount of damage to both property and the environment from fire. In fact they are so good at protecting property that many business that experience a fire and have sprinklers fitted, are able to be back up and operational within days if not hours. Clear evidence that sprinklers work. In fact, the NFCC and the National Fire Sprinkler Network (NFSN) have worked together to investigate the effectiveness and reliability of sprinkler systems. Evidence shows that sprinkler systems operate on 94% of occasions demonstrating very high reliability. Furthermore, it is evident that when they do operate they extinguish or contain the fire on 99% of occasions. Fire doesn’t discriminate; it doesn’t distinguish one building type to another. Its one constant, is that it wrecks lives. The devastating effect of fire was brought into sharp focus with last year’s Grenfell tragedy. As a result, it looks like regulatory change is on its way but the question I am currently finding myself asking, is this change going to be enough? Since Grenfell the weaknesses in our system of fire regulation has been exposed. This has been reinforced in Dame Judith Hackitt’s Interim Report into the Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety calling it “not fit for purpose”. The concern is that we are now in the position of expecting a massive step forward in terms of regulatory guidance and if the rumours are to be heeded, we may just get cosmetic improvements. This isn’t enough. What we need is a wide and deep review of the current Regulations and Guidance – something which many in the Fire Sector have been highlighting to Government for many years. We need this review to consider how we make our buildings resilient. Yes life safety is important, but we need to consider property protection too. Sprinklers provide property protection and I am in no doubt that if the project design team or consultant had recommended sprinklers or the client had insisted on sprinklers, the fire earlier this week in Daventry would not have had the devastating impact it has had. Not only has this fire had a massive financial impact in terms of an insurance claim, jobs will be at risk, the local economy will be affected and there is the environmental impact that removing a fire damaged building and rebuilding it will have. Sprinklers would have helped to create a resilient building and the owners would not be facing the challenges that now lie ahead for them. Sprinkler Week is important. It’s important that we understand the effect fires have and the benefits that sprinklers have. It is also important that we keep pushing for the regulatory change that is so needed. Sprinklers are an effective part of an overall fire safety solution. They can be used efficiently to improve fire safety in a range of new and existing buildings. They save lives, they save property. For more information about the Business Sprinkler Alliance visit www.business-sprinkler-alliance.org
