US Senators reintroduce legislation to enhance fire safety in public housing

by AmericasBuilding ManagementFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Legislation to retrofit public housing buildings with sprinkler systems

U.S. Senators Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar have reintroduced legislation to help install sprinkler systems in older public housing buildings, aiming to increase safety and save lives.

A detailed outline of the proposed legislation can be found here.

Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by US Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman and John Rutherford, with support from Representative Ilhan Omar.

The Public Housing Fire Safety Act is a response to the tragic Cedar High Apartments fire in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 2019.

The upper floors of the building where the fire erupted did not have sprinkler systems installed.

Key quotes from the officials on public housing fire safety

Senator Klobuchar stated: “In the wake of the tragic 2019 Cedar High Apartments Fire, I joined Senator Smith in introducing legislation to ensure that buildings have properly installed fire and sprinkler systems.

“Every second counts during a house fire, and with up-to-date systems, more lives can be saved.

“We need to continue these efforts by passing the Public Housing Fire Safety Act to bring us one step closer towards ensuring that buildings are safe for all residents.”

Senator Smith remarked: “The fire at Cedar High Apartments was a tragic loss for the Cedar-Riverside community.

“In the aftermath of the tragedy, I began connecting with people closely affected by the fire and looking into ways to prevent it from happening again.

“This bill gets to the root of what we need to do: incentivise public housing authorities to install sprinkler systems and give them the support they need to do it.”

Bill Webb, Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute, noted the importance of investment in retrofitting with fire sprinkler systems for public housing safety.

Trinidad Uribe, President of the USA Sprinkler Fitters Association, called the Public Housing Fire Safety Act a “crucial and necessary solution to improving the safety of public housing facilities and protecting the lives of tenants across the country.”

Details of the Public Housing Fire Safety Act and historical context

The Federal Fire Safety Act of 1992 mandated the installation of sprinklers in all newly constructed government-owned high-rise buildings.

However, thousands of public housing apartment buildings around the country were built before that date, leaving them without mandatory sprinkler systems.

Nearly all of the high-rise public housing buildings in Minneapolis were constructed prior to these regulations.

The Public Housing Fire Safety Act would create an annual $25 million competitive grant programme to provide funds to public housing authorities wishing to retrofit older high-rise apartment buildings with sprinkler systems.

Senators Smith and Klobuchar have previously secured $2 million in funding for the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority to install fire sprinklers in outdated public housing, reflecting a long-standing commitment to safety in public housing.

IFSJ Comment

The reintroduction of legislation aimed at improving fire safety measures in public housing reflects a timely response to the ongoing challenge of keeping residents safe.

By focusing on retrofitting older buildings with sprinkler systems, the Public Housing Fire Safety Act has the potential to significantly reduce the risk of tragic incidents like the Cedar High Apartments fire in 2019.

We will continue to monitor the development of this legislation and its potential impact on public housing across the country.

Addressing accountability

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementConstructionSafety

Kelly Donoghue, Head of Training at the Fire Protection Association, looks at resident engagement strategies for higher risk buildings

Resident Engagement Groups are a necessary part of the requirements of the Building Safety Act 2022, that details how the Principal Accountable Person (PAP) must create a resident engagement strategy to encourage all relevant persons to participate in the process of building safety decisions.

An Accountable Person (AP) is responsible for the building or part of a building of a residential unit, and will usually be an organisation or business but could also be an individual.

Whilst the AP or PAP will hold responsibility for developing the safety case and maintaining the safety arrangements, it is likely that day-to-day activities in terms of monitoring, implementation, and review of the engagement strategy will fall to an organisation or individual with the competencies to do so effectively.

In addition to other duties, the PAP must develop a ‘safety case report’ and a strategy that encourages the participation of residents in decisions related to fire safety risks in their building.

The consultation process must consider all representations from Resident Engagement Groups during the review process.

Any decision relating to the management of the building by the AP is referred to as a ‘Building Safety Decision’.

The resident engagement strategy must therefore include: information that will be provided to relevant persons about decisions relating to the management of the building; the aspects of those decisions that relevant persons will be consulted about; the arrangements for obtaining and taking account of the views of relevant persons; and how the appropriateness of methods for promoting participation will be measured and kept under review. (Building Safety Act 2022).

A copy of the strategy must be provided by the AP to every resident – “relevant person” – over the age of 16 who resides in the building, alongside each owner, or the person who controls the premises.

However, if the AP is not aware of all persons they would be responsible for but has taken all reasonable steps to identify those in scope of the requirements, then the duty does not apply.

Residents and owners of an occupied high rise residential building, over the age of 16, can make a request to the AP for prescribed information, or prescribed documents, and the AP must provide this information as soon as “reasonably practicable”.

PAS 8673:2022 Built environment – competence requirements for the management of safety in residential buildings, echoes the importance of stakeholder engagement within the competency framework for APs and those managing safety in residential buildings.

Section 6.2 describes the competencies required of the person managing safety in relation to leadership and teamwork. It highlights they will require the ability to “evaluate the needs of occupants, including the requirements of those with mobility, cognitive, or sensory impairment”. They have to be able to effectively engage with key stakeholders to maintain positive relationships, developing and implementing an effective and inclusive engagement strategy.

Section 6.4 highlights the competency requirements in relation to operational practices requiring the stakeholder to: “communicate with, and support, occupants and other key stakeholders through practical measures relating to building safety, including reviews, analysis of findings, reporting, and feedback, taking into account primary language considerations and the requirements of those with mobility, cognitive, or sensory impairment”.

Working with industry professionals, The Fire Protection Association is pleased to offer the newly developed ‘Managing Fire Risk in Residential Properties’ course to assist the understanding of these requirements. To find out more about this course, visit: https://www.thefpa.co.uk/training/fire-risk-assessment-training-courses/fire-risk-management-in-residential-properties

About the Fire Protection Association

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) is the UK’s national fire safety organisation. As fire safety experts, we have an unrivalled reputation for quality and expertise in all aspects of fire protection including research, consultancy, training, publications, risk surveying and auditing.

All our services are central to the reputation we’ve built amongst our membership and advocates who trust our expertise.

This exclusive article was originally published in the August 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

SFPE announces speakers for the Engineering Solutions Symposium

by Building ManagementConstructionEventsFeatured NewsSustainability

Symposium to explore fire safety in sustainable design

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) has invited professionals to the SFPE Engineering Solutions Symposium for Fire Safety and Sustainable Building Design. Hosted in collaboration with FRISSBE, the event is scheduled to be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on November 29-30, 2023.

The symposium will delve into design concepts, tools, and methods for creating fire-safe buildings.

In addition, it will highlight the role of fire safety in sustainable design and education.

Experts will share engineering solutions on subjects such as sustainable building design, reduction of embodied carbon, fire performance of sustainable construction materials, fire testing, and building information modeling (BIM).

Keynote speakers and program details, including SFPE’s commitment to sustainability

Opening remarks will be delivered by SFPE President Jimmy Jönsson, who will focus on SFPE’s commitment to engineering a sustainable and fire resilient built environment.

Symposium Co-Chairs Brian Meacham and Grunde Jomaas, along with SFPE Interim CEO Chris Jelenewicz, will also offer opening remarks.

The full program includes presentations on designing for sustainability and fire safety, gaps in science, policy, and legislation, and the impact of fire in the context of sustainability.

The symposium will include panel discussions on the role of fire safety in sustainable design, fire safety challenges of sustainable technologies, and the role of timber in a sustainable built environment.

Registration, sponsorship, and collaboration with SFPE

Partnership with FRISSBE and support from Danfoss Fire Safety and Evox has made this symposium possible.

Limited sponsorships and exhibit opportunities are still available.

Early-bird registration discounts are offered until October 27.

For further information or to register for the symposium, visit the official website.

About the Engineering Solutions Symposium for Fire Safety and Sustainable Building Design

As environmental challenges rise globally, the construction industry is prioritising the creation of sustainable buildings that are energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and socially responsible.

The 2-day event in Slovenia will focus on how sustainable design principles can be applied without reducing fire safety.

SFPE and FRISSBE have assembled a panel of experts to share knowledge on subjects such as sustainable building design, fire testing, and holistic building performance design.

IFSJ Comment

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers’ commitment to sustainability, coupled with their exploration of fire safety in the context of environmentally responsible building practices, brings vital insights to the industry.

By offering an opportunity for professionals to engage with leading experts, the symposium promises to provide a platform for sharing best practices, research, and engineering solutions.

The integration of fire safety measures into sustainable building design is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants and the environment.

The Evolution of Fire Safety

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementConstructionFire DetectionSafety

Mandy Bowden, Fire Manager at Comelit-PAC shares her views on the fire safety landscape with IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey

2023 started with new legislation, and with more guidance expected in quarter three, the year is becoming one of real significance in the way we approach fire safety. 

But what does this mean in our day-to-day activities?

Iain Hoey, Editor of International Fire Safety Journal, speaks exclusively to Mandy Bowden, Fire Manager at Comelit-PAC. 

The interview highlights new expectations placed on the sector as a whole to maintain standards and awareness, in line with evolving technology and specification demands.

What do the new standards mean for the fire industry?

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations came into force on 23 January 2023. The purpose of these regulations was to implement the recommendations made during Phase 1 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. 

They impose specific and ongoing obligations on the “responsible person” regarding fire safety, in line with the duties outlined in the Building Safety Act, which itself only recently launched.

What is required of the reasonable person varies, according to the height of the building. 

There are some baseline obligations and then enhanced for residential buildings over 11 metres and further for 18 metres high.  They also extend to higher-risk buildings including care homes, hospitals and student accommodation.

These will be complemented by new regulations for fire safety legal provisions within section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022. 

Expected for 1st October 2023, they make several amendments to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) to improve fire safety in all buildings regulated by the FSO.

The fire sector has a duty of care to stay one step ahead and support the new ‘responsible persons’ to ensure together, we can navigate these new expectations with confidence and resilience.

Speaking of Grenfell, it is the sixth anniversary of the tragedy in 2023.  What significance does this still hold?

The sixth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower tragedy still holds immense significance and serves as a solemn reminder of one of the most devastating incidents in recent memory.

This anniversary remains an opportunity for reflection and remembrance.

Alongside the legislative changes that have been introduced, and the continued inquiries and investigations, there is the constant questioning of what more can we do.

The need to raise public awareness about the importance of fire safety and emphasis the need for every building to have adequate measures in place to prevent such tragedies from happening again.

Ultimately, every anniversary will honour the memory of those who lost their lives, and stand in solidarity with the survivors. 

It will also renew the commitment to effect meaningful change to prevent similar tragedies from ever happening in the future.

Can you share your perspective on the importance of fire safety education and public awareness campaigns?

It’s vital to continue to educate everyone on the essential significance of fire safety. 

Not just having the right systems in place, or the most up-to-date legislation, but also fully understanding hazards, risks and potential for fire. 

Education must encompass a wide range of topics, including an understanding of the role of the Responsible Person, fire prevention strategies, proper use of fire extinguishers, evacuation procedures, and the importance of early detection through smoke alarms.

By disseminating this knowledge, individuals can take proactive measures to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.

With increased awareness, we are looking for positive behavioural change.

When individuals understand the potential consequences of fire incidents and have the necessary knowledge to prevent and respond to them, they are more likely to adopt safe practices.

It’s a combined effort, but one that the fire safety sector can play a significant role.

We have the support capability to educate our customers and their end users. 

By promoting preparedness and providing accurate information, these initiatives contribute to a safer environment and reduce the potential for loss and trauma associated with fire incidents.

How do you see the relationship between building design and fire safety evolving in the future?

From the sector’s perspective, we understand the relationship between building design and fire safety and see how it must evolve to enable a fast response. 

We work closely with Comelit-PAC’s specification team to introduce fire safety as early as possible into a specification process, whether a new build or refurbishment programme, enabling works to incorporate routes to escape and building management. 

From here we can support a dedicated risk assessment and work findings into the initial design phase.

We can incorporate fire safety to utilise modern technology routes to allow for optimal time and coordinate with Responsible Persons to have the remote capability to evaluate risk and enable a fast response.

Overall, the evolving relationship will be marked by a stronger integration of technology, a focus on passive fire protection, enhanced evacuation strategies, sustainable solutions, stricter compliance with building codes, and increased collaboration among professionals.

These advancements aim to create buildings that prioritise occupant safety and minimise the risks associated with fire incidents.

What’s next for the fire safety industry?

The landscape of fire safety is undergoing a remarkable transformation.  Not only in the need for compliance but also as technology advances. 

Organisations are embracing innovative solutions to safeguard their assets, people and premises.

The integration of smart technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud capability, is revolutionising fire safety systems.  

We are particularly proud that our LogiFire is already cloud-enabled to allow real-time monitoring from anywhere, early fire detection, and efficient emergency response.  

Smart fire alarms, connected sensors, and intelligent evacuation systems are also examples of how technology is continuing to enhance fire safety.

Advances in fire detection and suppression technologies are improving the effectiveness and speed of response.

New detection systems use innovative methods, including advanced sensors and machine learning algorithms to provide early warning and accurate identification of fire incidents.

The use of data analytics and predictive modelling is becoming increasingly important in fire risk assessment.

By analysing historical data, building characteristics, and fire incident patterns, fire safety professionals can identify high-risk areas and prioritise preventive measures.

All of this needs to adapt to the evolving needs and lifestyles of the 21st century and be app monitored. 

For Comelit-PAC users, it means systems can be status checked across a fire safety network on a remote basis, making sure they are always connected and fully operational.

Event notifications can be sent via email and/or SMS messaging.

What advice do you have for time, resource and budget-restricted installers looking to stay ahead of the game?

The main advice we would give is to commit to ongoing improvement.  We know it’s always an objective in theory, but in practice, set against work programmes and customer demands, it doesn’t always achieve its priority status.

By regularly evaluating processing, installation and customer feedback, strengths and areas for improvement can consistently be identified.

We see this willingness to adapt as setting installers apart from their competitors.

There are plenty of ways to stay updated on industry trends including industry publications in our industry, conferences and professional associations. 

We’ve seen already the impressive attendance of The Fire Safety Event and FIREX as a willingness to explore new opportunities.

There are also free hands-on training programmes to help installers to enhance their skills and knowledge. 

Comelit-PAC offers this with our dedicated training schedule associated with our LogiFire addressable fire safety system. 

The aim of the training is for our dedicated sales and technical fire team to work with the skillset of the installers, from an introduction through to an advanced level. 

They will be able to see from a hands-on approach the ease of installing LogiFire offers.

There is also a networking course and most recently, due to installer demand, we introduced an installation and fault-finding session.

From our perspective, staying ahead of the game in the fire safety industry requires a combination of technical expertise, industry knowledge, and a customer-centric approach.

By embracing new technologies, staying updated on regulations, fostering collaboration, and prioritising customer service, you can position yourself as a trusted and innovative fire safety installer. 

It sounds like a lot, but with the support and regular communications with sector specialists, installers can benefit from a strong partnership and access to the expertise, advice and resources needed to tackle any fire safety programme of works.

Finally, could you discuss any upcoming projects or initiatives that Comelit-PAC is excited about?

What most excites me is the flexibility of the LogiFire system. 

We are currently working on projects as varied as a renowned football club to a famous honey farm.

This year LogiFire has been installed – amongst many other projects – at an office development at an iconic Manchester city skyline development, a leisure centre and a hotel in Brighton.

Each time we are specified, we need to understand the bespoke requirements of the site and see how LogiFire can be best utilised. 

We aim to ensure the system can be installed to seamlessly blend with its surroundings, without affecting the experience of visitors, staff, residents and guests.

Like the fire safety sector as a whole, we are also continuously working on our portfolio to ensure we are offering the very latest solution.

Our latest FIRE2VIP interface enables a complete building management system to coordinate fire safety and video door entry. 

The addition of FIRE2VIP highlights LogiFire’s innovative capability to enhance the convenience and accessibility of fire safety maintenance programmes and ensure the safety of a building can always be kept under control. 

Not only does this coordinate the activity and any given alarm indications, but also means the Responsible Person has the option of receiving notifications from anywhere, at any time, via the full-responsive MyComelit app.

Overall, Comelit-PAC sees the future of fire safety in the seamless integration of advanced technologies, innovative designs (with no compromise to style,) and robust regulatory measures. 

By working together, raising awareness, training and embracing this capability, we can pave the way for safer, more intelligent built environments and enhanced protection for lives and property.

UK Government announces new safety measure: second staircase for buildings over 18 metres

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Sweeping changes in UK housing plans: safety and regeneration in focus

The UK Government has revealed a long-term plan for housing, signalling its commitment to regeneration and housing delivery across England.

Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, and the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, announced plans to transform England’s cityscape

Mandate for a second staircase: a step towards enhanced safety

As part of its commitment to safety, the government has confirmed plans to require a second staircase in all new residential buildings over 18 metres.

This initiative aims to give people “unimpeachable confidence that new homes are safe and decent to live in,” according to the announcement.

The addition of a second staircase comes in response to industry calls for clarity and certainty.

The government is working quickly with industry and regulators to create transitional arrangements to avoid disruption to ongoing housing projects.

NFCC responds to the ‘second staircase’ regulation

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) welcomed the Government’s second staircase announcement.

In a statement, the NFCC shared their appreciation for the decision, noting that they had previously called for this safety measure.

Gavin Tomlinson, NFCC Protection and Business Safety Scrutiny Committee Chair, said: “NFCC welcomes the Secretary of State’s announcement that a second staircase will be mandatory for all new residential buildings above 18 metres in height… This decision marks another significant step in improving the safety of residents and firefighters in high-rise residential buildings across England.”

The NFCC is encouraging the government to extend this initiative to existing buildings by installing sprinklers and updating evacuation lifts during refurbishments.

More initiatives under the long-term housing plan

Also revealed in the housing plan are initiatives geared to revitalising cities and regenerating towns, with £800 million allocated from the £1.5 billion Brownfield, Infrastructure and Land fund to unlock up to 56,000 new homes on brownfield sites.

Reforms to the planning system will speed up new developments, empower local communities to build their own homes, and unlock planning decisions.

IFSJ Comment

This new regulation for a second staircase is a meaningful move towards enhancing building safety. By providing multiple escape routes, the risk of a single point of failure during a fire is significantly reduced, which buys crucial time for firefighting activities.

This strategy has already been successful in Scotland, and with this change, England is falling in line with numerous countries worldwide, such as in Europe, Australasia and North America, strengthening its commitment to safety in high-rise buildings.

Building control profession takes first step towards regulation

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

In a significant move, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) announced on 17th July 2023 that the first steps have been taken to regulate the building control profession.

This development, made in association with two independent provider schemes, aims to pave the way for building control professionals to register as building inspectors.

First organisations to become independent competence assessors for building control surveyors in England

The Building Safety Competence Foundation and the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) have been announced as the first organisations to undertake independent competence assessments for all building control surveyors in England.

This competence assessment is a crucial part of the pathway for these professionals to attain registered building inspector status.

Regulating building control: over 4,500 professionals to be assessed and certified

According to the BSR, more than 4,500 building control professionals will need to be evaluated and certified by April 2024.

This will facilitate their transition to becoming registered building inspectors.

From April 2024, working within Building Control across the entire built environment in England without certification will be prohibited.

New Building Inspector Competence Framework to guide assessments

Candidates for registered building inspector status will be assessed based on the Building Inspector Competence Framework (BICoF) classes 2 – 4 every four years.

The BICoF targets the skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours anticipated of registered building inspectors, and is split into nine interrelated subject areas.

Dr Gavin Dunn, Chief Executive of CABE, commented on this development: “Building control professionals have a vital role in helping to deliver buildings that are safe, sustainable, and accessible to all.

“We are delighted to be able to play our part in supporting professionals to demonstrate their competence and in developing a culture of continuous improvement.”

Lorna Stimpson, the BSCF’s Chief Executive, expressed her satisfaction: “We are delighted to have received approval from the Building Safety Regulator to provide independent competence assessments for building control surveyors in England.”

Legacy of the Grenfell Tower tragedy: building control now a regulated profession

Regulating the building control profession and requiring these professionals to demonstrate their competency to the BSR forms part of the legacy of the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy.

HSE’s Director of Building Safety, Philip White, emphasised that this step is key to restoring public faith in the building control profession after the Grenfell incident.

IFSJ Comment

The move towards making building control a regulated profession underscores the significance of ensuring the safety of our built environment.

It marks a significant step towards transparency, accountability and competence within the industry.

Johnson Controls introduces new evacuation alert system for high-rise buildings

by AmericasBuilding ManagementFeatured NewsProductsSafety

The FireClass evacuation alert system designed for improved safety and compliance in the UK

  • A robust system offering enhanced evacuation capabilities

Johnson Controls, a renowned name in creating smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, has recently launched the FireClass evacuation alert system.

The system aims to offer fire and rescue services an uncomplicated, user-friendly method to initiate an evacuation signal in high-rise structures.

This becomes especially pertinent for residential high-rise buildings in the UK as it aids compliance with the recently implemented BS8629:2019 code of practice.

This code necessitates the use of sounders or similar devices to alert inhabitants in case of an emergency and direct them safely out of the building.

“Swift and controlled evacuation is paramount when it comes to fire safety,” Tony Gryscavage, director of Product Management, Fire Detection Products, at Johnson Controls noted.

Recent incidents in London have highlighted the urgent need for re-evaluating evacuation protocols in heavily occupied buildings.

“London alone houses 80,000 high-rise buildings, with many more planned for construction across the UK.

The right technology is crucial in ensuring the safety of individuals living and working in these buildings,” Gryscavage added.

The FireClass evacuation alert system is intended to guide a safe and controlled evacuation using a zoned communication system.

It includes individual toggle switches that let the operator methodically activate and cancel the sounders to each floor.

The indicators further enable operators to confirm the sounders on each floor are functioning correctly.

As evacuation is initiated, LED identifiers located on the exterior of the panel show the status and power availability within each zone.

FireClass evacuation alert system: facilitating multiple building zones

The FireClass evacuation alert system features a two to four-loop power system that can support up to 16 building zones.

This system can be expanded by connecting with the FC-EAS-BB evacuation alert system black box panel or additional FireClass evacuation alert system panels.

Access to the panel is protected by a unique key to ensure operation is permitted only to first responders.

The system offers a straightforward user interface, which promises quick and intuitive operation during critical moments.

Safety and performance are further enhanced with the support of EN 54-24 certified speakers, sounders, and power supply equipment.

This evacuation alert system operates independently from the fire detection system.

This means it can be installed alongside new or existing fire detection systems within both new construction and retrofit buildings.

A highly durable exterior casing helps prevent tampering and keeps the system protected and ready for when it is needed most.

For more information about the FireClass FC-EAS Evacuation Alert System, visit fireclass.co.uk.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the FireClass evacuation alert system marks a significant advancement in the field of building safety. It is particularly timely in light of the updated BS8629:2019 code of practice in the UK.

The system’s simplicity of operation for first responders, and its capacity to work independently from existing fire detection systems, make it a highly versatile and valuable tool in the quest to enhance safety in high-rise buildings.

Northern Ireland proposes new fire sprinklers for all new high-rise apartments

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsFire Suppression

Introduction of fire sprinklers in new builds over 11 metres

The Northern Ireland government has initiated a public consultation on the proposed changes to local Building Regulations, with a specific emphasis on fire safety measures.

The consultation, which was launched on 3 July 2023 and is set to conclude on 25 September 2023, is aimed at elevating fire safety protocols in buildings.

The proposed amendments will primarily focus on residential buildings, particularly multi-residential ones.

An overview of the fire safety measures proposed

The intended effect of the proposed changes is to mitigate the consequences of fires by saving lives and preventing injuries.

The Department is planning to revise Part E (Fire safety) of the Building Regulations and the accompanying Technical Booklet E (Fire safety).

Under the new proposed amendments, a fresh functional regulation in Part E is to be introduced.

This regulation will necessitate those carrying out the work to provide sufficient fire safety information to the relevant party who has fire safety duties.

This requirement will apply to buildings with flats more than 11m above the ground level.

The role of fire sprinklers in enhancing safety

The new prescriptive regulation in Part E will mandate the installation of suitable automatic fire suppression systems, such as fire sprinklers, in specific types of buildings.

These will encompass buildings containing flats and purpose-built student accommodations with a floor more than 11m above the ground level.

Additionally, all residential care premises will also need to have these systems, regardless of their height.

Several changes to the Technical Booklet E (Fire safety) are also proposed. These will provide guidance on new requirements for fire safety information and the installation of automatic fire suppression systems.

They also aim to increase smoke alarm coverage in all new dwellings and clarify the measures required for adequate smoke ventilation from common escape routes in buildings with flats.

The guidelines will also enhance facilities and access for the Fire and Rescue Service, aiding firefighters in search and rescue operations and firefighting.

An online information event will be held on Tuesday 18 July where the Department will present these proposals.

Those unable to attend can access an anonymised Q&A summary and a voiced-over video presentation on the official consultation page.

Responses to the consultation will be accepted until the closing date, Monday 25 September 2023.

IFSJ Comment

This represents a proactive step towards enhancing fire safety in buildings, particularly residential ones.

The introduction of fire sprinklers and other fire suppression systems in high-rise buildings could significantly reduce the risk of fire-related fatalities and injuries, thus promoting safer living conditions for residents.

Industry brings clarity on fire compliance for mass timber buildings

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Collaborative research helps illuminate fire safety design guidelines

OFR Consultants, a leading fire engineering consultancy, has partnered with the Structural Timber Association (STA) to provide the wider industry with much-needed clarity on the fire safety design of mass timber buildings.

Their joint research into cross laminated timber (CLT) compartment fire behaviour has been published in Volume 6 of the STA’s Fire Safety in Use Guidance.

This study was an ambitious attempt to ascertain the relationship between different building heights, uses and consequence classes.

Not forgetting the critical performance expectations of structures in a fire situation.

Solving challenges in fire compliance for mass timber buildings

The primary hurdles in delivering mass timber buildings stem from confusion around compliance with Building Regulations.

This includes understanding what evidence designers need to furnish to show their compliance.

The newly revised guidance is a crucial resource for designers and building control bodies.

It offers a consistent approach to the design of mass timber buildings.

It also sets the expectation of what types of solutions and analysis should be expected based on a building’s height and use.

Dr Danny Hopkin, OFR Technical Director and co-lead author on the project, shed light on their initiative: “OFR is the lead research partner delivering the STA special interest group (SIG) project on cross laminated timber (CLT) compartment fire behaviour.”

“The study identified that higher consequence buildings should survive the full duration of a fire, while lower consequence buildings should survive long enough to enable occupants to escape and facilitate fire service activities.”

He emphasised the importance of this distinction in helping engineers create the correct evidence to support their designs while demonstrating compliance with the Building Regulations.

Hopkin expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the study: “We’re delighted that this study has been developed into industry guidance via Volume 6 of the Fire Safety in Use Guidance.”

He continued: “Together with my co-lead author and OFR colleague Research Leader, Mike Spearpoint, we suggest that the guidance should be viewed on a project-by-project basis.”

This involves considering the specific fire safety strategy for each building and the input from all key stakeholders.

The new fire compliance guidance encourages dialogue

Andrew Orris at STA echoed these sentiments: “This new guidance encourages dialogue with approving authorities to establish the structural fire performance objectives.”

This involves considering factors such as the evacuation mode, fire service provisions, and the addition of fire safety systems like sprinklers.

It also features an appendix of application examples to help designers apply the guidance effectively.

Upon completion, the guidance underwent independent review by a stakeholder review panel.

Following two and a half years of use by designers, the STA has updated the document to incorporate user feedback.

OFR has remained a steady guiding hand, overseeing these changes to ensure alignment with the original intent.

This was achieved by reviewing and editing the second edition.

You can access the standard Volume 6 of the fire safety in use guidance here.

IFSJ Comment

We recognise the significant impact of this collaboration on the wider industry. By clarifying key points on fire compliance in mass timber building design, OFR and the STA are providing a crucial step forward in making such structures safer and more reliable.

New Fire Safety Framework seeks experts for £140m public sector project

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

LHC Procurement Group invites applications for Fire Safety Framework

The non-profit public sector framework provider, LHC Procurement Group, is inviting applications for their new Fire Safety (FS2) Framework.

The initiative has been launched to secure end-to-end fire safety measures for the public sector across Britain.

Applications will be open until mid-August.

Fire Safety Framework: A £140m opportunity

Valued at £105 million in England, £20 million in Scotland, and £15 million in Wales, the FS2 framework is an opportunity that fire safety experts should not miss.

The framework will accommodate six suppliers per lot, for each regional area.

Those interested can register for the LHC’s FS2 webinar slated for 11am on Monday, 3 July, to learn more about the framework.

FS2 Framework: Replacing FS1 with advanced fire safety measures

FS2 aims to build upon and replace the current Fire Safety (FS1) framework.

The new framework extends to passive and active fire protection measures for both existing and new domestic and non-domestic buildings, while also covering fire suppression, consultancy, waking watch services and cladding remediation.

Drafted in collaboration with industry experts, FS2 adheres to current legislation including the Building Safety Act 2022, Fire Safety Act 2021, and Fire Safety (England) regulations 2022.

Dean Fazackerley, Head of Technical Procurement at LHC, noted: “Fire safety has become a paramount concern for local authorities and social housing providers due to the recent implementation of the Building Safety Act 2022 post the Grenfell Tower tragedy.”

On the new framework, Fazackerley added: “FS2 represents a significant advancement from FS1 by expanding the range of fire safety measures available.

“Developed in partnership with expert consultants, the framework ensures comprehensive coverage of current legislation, giving our clients peace of mind through compliance with regulations and industry best practices.”

Inclusive of SMEs: The new Fire Safety Framework

In addition to working with established players, FS2 will provide opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Fazackerley explained: “We recognise the valuable knowledge and capabilities of SMEs and aim to utilise their expertise.

“FS2 will offer our clients a range of both national and local organisations capable of undertaking specialised projects, providing value and tailored solutions.”

The framework will be made available through both direct award and mini competition via LHC’s business units across Britain.

This includes Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA), Consortium Procurement Construction (CPC), Welsh Procurement Alliance (WPA), South-West Procurement Alliance (SWPA) and LHC London and South East England (LSE).

For more information about FS2 and how to become a part of the framework, click here.

IFSJ Comment

This news is particularly significant as it heralds a robust approach to fire safety in the public sector, providing opportunities for both established businesses and SMEs to play a part in a safer future.