CPA announces Adam Turk as new chair, signalling a fresh direction for the construction products industry

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPeople

Construction Products Association welcomes new leadership

The Construction Products Association (CPA) has announced the appointment of Adam Turk as its new Chair.

Turk, who currently serves as CEO of Siderise, brings extensive experience from his decades-long career in the construction sector.

His deep involvement with the CPA over the last fifteen years positions him uniquely to steer the association through a pivotal era.

Turk’s predecessor, Phil Johns, led the CPA through a turbulent period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, the impacts of the Russo-Ukraine war, and the ongoing ramifications of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Under Johns’ leadership, the CPA played a crucial role in addressing these challenges alongside government bodies and industry stakeholders.

The association has expressed profound gratitude to Johns as he transitions to new opportunities.

Challenges and opportunities ahead under new building safety laws

With the building safety regime now enshrined in law, the CPA faces both challenges and opportunities as the industry adjusts to new regulatory requirements.

Turk has been instrumental in developing the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), a critical tool demonstrating the sector’s commitment to safety and integrity.

During his speech at the CPA’s annual Spring lunch, Turk highlighted the necessity of internal reform within the industry, calling for “a top-down commitment to best practice, producing trustworthy product information and driving competence within our own organisations and the wider construction supply chain,” he stated.

New leadership, renewed focus

On his appointment, Turk expressed his honour and enthusiasm for his new role: “I am very honoured to have been appointed as the next CPA Chairman. The construction products industry is a great industry.

“One I am very proud to have been a part of for many years, and one that I am now excited to help lead for what promises to be an interesting period as the building safety regime begins to embed itself.

“I believe that, with the right focus and application, the construction product industry can get the attention it deserves, and we can create a trusted, successful and financially strong sector of the British economy,” Turk said.

Peter Caplehorn, Chief Executive of the CPA, also commented on the transition: “The CPA is committed to working with its members, with government, and with the wider industry to help ensure that it is driven in the right direction.

“This role has been ably conducted by Phil during a very challenging time.

“We now welcome Adam as Phil’s successor, and look forward to seeing how his drive, expertise, and integrity will support us in achieving these next steps towards a safer and more sustainable built environment,” Caplehorn added.

Build UK updates Building Safety Regime guide to cover latest phase

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured News

Building Safety Act: A new framework for enhanced safety in construction

Build UK has recently updated its Building Safety Regime guide, which now includes comprehensive details from the latest phase of the regime, effective from 6 April 2024.

The updated guide introduces new registers for Building Control Approvers and Building Inspectors and revises Approved Document B, which now includes guidance on second staircases for new residential buildings over 18 metres tall.

Moreover, Build UK has developed a summary of the Golden Thread for members, focusing on the mandatory collection and storage of information for Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs).

A timeline within the guide outlines when each significant update will come into effect.

Industry responses to the new safety regime

Following the release of the fourth report by the Industry Safety Steering Group, Dame Judith Hackitt, the group’s chair, shared her reflections through a blog post.

She acknowledged the “huge progress” made so far and encouraged continued collaboration within the industry to ensure the success of the new regime.

Additionally, it has been reported that the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report will be delayed, with its publication now scheduled for after the upcoming June anniversary of the fire.

Impact and future expectations

The updates to the Building Safety Regime are intended to provide clearer, more stringent guidelines for construction safety, particularly in the context of high-rise buildings.

These changes are seen as vital steps towards preventing future incidents and ensuring a safer living environment for residents.

The detailed timeline and the introduction of new roles are expected to streamline compliance and enhance oversight across construction projects.

IFSJ Comment

By incorporating the latest regulatory changes and practical guidance, Build UK aims to set a higher standard of safety in construction, particularly in response to the tragic lessons learnt from the Grenfell Tower fire.

As the industry continues to evolve, such proactive updates are crucial for maintaining trust and safety in residential and commercial buildings.

This commitment to continuous improvement in building safety regulations demonstrates an adaptive and responsive approach to critical safety challenges in the construction sector.

Fire safety compliance in England’s high-rises falls short under new regulations

by Building ManagementConstructionSafety

Recent findings reveal low compliance rates

According to new research from FASTSIGNS UK, fire and rescue services in England have received only a fraction of the required building and external wall plans for high-rise buildings under the updated fire safety regulations.

These findings, based on Freedom of Information requests to 18 fire services, show that only about 30% of building plans and 21% of external wall plans have been submitted since the regulations were updated.

This low compliance comes despite the legal obligation for responsible persons of high-rise residential buildings, with seven or more storeys, to provide local fire and rescue services with essential safety information, as stipulated by the Fire Safety (England) Regulation 2022, effective from 23 January 2023.

The importance of these regulations was underscored by the Grenfell Tower tragedy in July 2017, which led to enhanced legal requirements including the necessity for clear, updated building plans to facilitate safe and effective emergency responses.

Variation in compliance across regions

The research highlights significant disparities in compliance among different fire services across England.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service reported the highest compliance, receiving 88% of both building and external wall plans.

In stark contrast, Nottingham Fire & Rescue Service received only 6% of building plans and a mere 4% of external wall plans.

This suggests a varied landscape of adherence across the region, potentially impacting the effectiveness of fire services during emergencies.

The data for this research was gathered to help fire services prepare more effectively for potential emergencies, ensuring they have the necessary information to navigate high-rise buildings safely.

It also aims to facilitate safer evacuation for residents by providing clear, signposted exit routes.

Comments from industry experts

John Davies, managing director of FASTSIGNS UK, emphasised the critical role of up-to-date safety information in building management: “No matter what the industry, health and safety signage is fundamental in minimising risks and supporting people’s wellbeing, as well as being crucial in the event of an emergency.

“With certified safety and directional signage, both residents and response teams will be able to clearly navigate high-rise buildings when an incident occurs.

“We work closely with our customers around England so that any buildings that fall under this criteria meet these new requirements.”

IFSJ Comment

The recent study revealing the low compliance with fire safety regulations in England’s high-rises raises significant concerns about safety standards and enforcement.

While some regions like Cheshire showcase high levels of adherence, the overall low compliance rate across the country points to a critical need for stronger enforcement and accountability mechanisms.

This issue highlights gaps in the regulatory framework and stresses the need for continuous improvement and oversight to ensure that safety regulations are more than just statutory requirements but actual practices that safeguard lives.

The Tall Buildings Challenge

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementConstructionSafety

IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White catches up with Russ Timpson, Managing Director, Tall Building Fire Safety Network, ahead of this year’s Tall Building/High Rise Fire Safety Conference

Ahead of the 8th edition of the Tall Building/High Rise Fire Safety Conference, which will take place on 15–17 April 2024 in Indianapolis, US, alongside FDIC, the event’s managing director Russ Timpson tells all about why it is a must-attend for building safety professionals.

Could you introduce yourself and your role in the industry?

My career in the fire industry started with Kent Fire Brigade which I joined in 1990.

Kent FB had some interesting challenges including responding to ship fires in the channel and the construction of the channel tunnel.

During my time as a firefighter I was given the opportunity to study fire engineering at South Bank University.

Graduation led to opportunities in wider industry starting with head of safety for Virgin Atlantic Airways.

In response to the Burger King Fire at Heathrow Airport, I was offered the role of Head of Fire Strategy with Airport operator BAA.

After five years with BAA I decided to start my own fire consultancy business.

I have built and sold businesses within the fire sector  since 2004.

During this time, I become particularly interested in Tall Buildings.

This led to the formation of the Tall Building Fire Safety Network in 2009.

What inspired the inception of the Tall Building Fire Safety Network (TBFSN), and how has it evolved since its establishment?

When considering the issue of tall building fire safety prior to 2009, it become clear to me that there were several issues that demanded investigation, challenge and innovation.

TBFSN established terms of reference that were based on sharing knowledge, case studies, best practice and innovation.

From the early days of informal meetings and networking, we have now progressed to a web site (www.tallbuildingfiresfatey.com), YouTube channel, training and international conferences.

Can you share the journey and the milestones achieved by this conference over the years?

Early conferences/events were very simple affairs with small numbers of interested people meeting to discuss issues and seek peer ‘reassurance’.

I had been running the South Branch if the IFE CPD programme so has become experienced in pulling events together.

As we progressed we got speakers to prepare presentations and themed events were developed.

Over this time, several large Tall Building Fire Occurred and we managed to get details and case studies.

These proved very popular, and we started getting people attending the events from outside the UK.

One of our steering panel was Prof. Ed Galea from the University of Greenwich.

Through his position at Greenwich we hired a large lecture room and ran our first International event. We invited speakers from around the World to attend.

After two very successful conferences we were approached by FIREX in London to run our conference as part of IFSEC.

This proved to be very popular, as delegates could attend the conference and also visit the exhibition.

2022 was our biggest event after Covid with delegates from twenty eight countries attending.

We started our conference archive and this is now packed with presentations and data from the conferences.

How do you ensure the agenda remains comprehensive and addresses the most pressing issues in tall building fire safety?

Having now done this for several years, I have managed to develop an extensive network of Tall Building / High Rise contacts from around the World.

I often speak to people about issues they are dealing with and considering. This provides an invaluable insight into current and emerging issues.

Obviously, major fire in Tall Buildings attract a lot of attention and we respond as soon as we can to get details and information when they happen.

This usually highlights a particular issues, such as combustible cladding. I have also developed good relationships with industry press and media which helps.

It is also important to maintain my own personal CPD, which means I attend and listed to webinars, podcasts and interviews.

How does the conference facilitate meaningful connections among delegates from diverse backgrounds and geographies?

It is so important that we do not limit our horizons to our own country. Meeting, debating and learning is a vital aspect of conferences and training.

We developed the Tall Building Fire Safety Network group on Linkedin and this has 1500 members from around the World.

Our flagship training course; Tall Building Fire Safety Management is a five day intensive training course.

Since 2011 we have trained over 1250 people and we remain in touch with them via social media. This is a great forum for answering questions and capturing best practice.

What are some innovative technologies that will be showcased or discussed at this year’s conference?

This year’s programme is a wide ranging programme which will cover the latest academic experimental work on cladding façade systems, fire testing of green walls, fire command systems and lots of content on high rise firefighting.

There will be discussion on the use of BA above fire zones in high rise buildings.

Technology must play a role in keeping firefighters safe in this scenario.

Two conference sponsors will be show casing their products at the event; Lifeline Fire Hose and Tablet Command.

What do you believe will be the most hotly debated topic this year?

No question: EV’s and Lithium Ion Batteries. We have to find practical solutions to this international challenge.

Many Tall Buildings sit atop sub surface car parks. Tall building owners are under pressure to provide charging facilities.

This challenge has to be progressed and SOP’s and equipment must be developed.

How does the conference intend to address the balance between architectural innovation in tall buildings and fire safety standards?

In the UK we are having a big debate about how many staircases Tall Buildings should have.

This debate is coming to a head with the recent requirement (within 30 months) to adopt a two staircase doctrine for Tall Buildings.

Several developers are saying this requirement is disproportionate and excessive. It will be interesting to debate the merits different stair configurations.

What emerging trends or challenges do you foresee in tall building fire safety, and how is the conference preparing to address these?

Certainly the sustainability challenge will feature large in new schemes for Tall Buildings.

The net zero target will need to be met by increasing insulation on buildings, including timber construction, use of PV panels and Green Walls.

Modern methods of construction will add complexity, not simplify.

The fire industry must be at the table as part of the discussion, not following behind with a bucket and spade picking up the mess.

The 8th International Tall Building High Rise Fire Safety Conference will play its part in this process – I hope to see you there.

The 8th International High Rise/Tall Building Fire Safety Conference will is taking place on 15–17 April 2024 in Indianapolis, US, alongside FDIC, supported by organisers Clarion.

This article was originally published in the April 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Promat to address fire risk management in energy upgrades at FPA Spring Seminar

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured News

Addressing fire risks in energy upgrades: Promat’s role at FPA Spring Seminar on Wednesday 17 April

Promat will play a central role in the Fire Protection Association’s Spring Seminar, focusing on managing fire risks during energy performance upgrades of buildings.

As this year’s headline sponsor, the seminar will feature discussions led by industry experts including Promat’s Technical Director, Nigel Morrey.

The seminar is aligned with themes of fire safety and sustainability within the built environment, topics that are increasingly crucial in light of global sustainability efforts.

Key themes and expert discussions

The seminar will extend discussions from COP28, which brought global leaders together to debate carbon emissions in the built environment.

Nigel Morrey and other panel experts will explore the implications of energy upgrades on fire safety.

“With an increased focus on effective fire safety mitigation in the construction industry, partnered with the tough challenges of addressing sustainability, this event will be an important opportunity to raise awareness of potential fire risks in energy upgrades – and discuss how to address these,” said Morrey.

Seminar details and participant information

The FPA Spring Seminar is scheduled for April 17 at the Chicago Booth’s London Conference Centre and will also be available online.

Promat, part of the Etex group, is known for its expertise in protective board solutions that maintain compartmentation and ensure structural integrity in fire events.

This seminar aims to facilitate a broad discussion on balancing fire safety with sustainable building practices.

IFSJ Comment

The involvement of Promat in the FPA Spring Seminar underscores the critical intersection of fire safety and environmental sustainability in building design.

As the built environment contributes significantly to global emissions, discussions at such seminars are essential for developing safe and sustainable architectural practices.

By addressing these dual aspects, the seminar not only promotes enhanced fire safety protocols but also supports the broader goals of sustainability in the construction industry.

Notre Dame fire five years on: Restoration of Cathedral nearly complete

by Breaking NewsConstruction

Overview of the restoration project

The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is approaching the completion of its restoration, five years following the devastating fire of April 15, 2019.

Philippe Jost, the head of the public body overseeing the project, confirmed that the cathedral is set to reopen on December 8, 2024.

This ambitious project involved over 250 companies and numerous artisans, costing approximately 550 million euros, supported by significant donations from the public and private sectors.

Historical significance and current progress

The fire that severely damaged the cathedral’s roof and spire was a global spectacle, drawing international attention and donations for its restoration.

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the dual symbolic importance of the cathedral’s restoration, coinciding with the Paris Olympic Games in 2024.

Recent updates indicate that the structural restoration, including the iconic spire topped with a golden rooster, is on track, with the major architectural features restored and the site preparation for public access underway.

Contributions and commemorations

The restoration has been a monumental effort involving not only construction teams but also artists and craftsmen dedicated to replicating the cathedral’s historic features.

Notably, Philippe Jost mentioned the potential for surplus funds to address long-standing issues with the cathedral’s exterior stonework.

The project has also incorporated modern commemorative elements, such as a competition to design new stained glass windows to reflect the contemporary era.

Comments from key figures on Notre Dame restoration

Philippe Jost stated: “We are on time and on budget,” during a recent Senate hearing.

Emma Roux, an artisan working on the stained glass, described the project as “the construction work of a lifetime.”

Their comments underscore the complexity and dedication involved in the cathedral’s restoration, aiming for both historical fidelity and modern enhancements.

IFSJ Comment

The nearing completion of Notre Dame’s symbolises resilience and unity in the face of disaster.

The project serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various experts and the generous support of donors.

As we look forward to its reopening, Notre Dame stands as a beacon of historical continuity and architectural revival, ready to welcome visitors for generations to come.

Read and exclusive article from Steve Emery, Chair of the IFE Special Interest Group for Heritage Buildings, who looks at what we have learned about fire since the 2019 Notre-Dame disaster.

Historic Copenhagen Old Stock Exchange building damaged in severe fire: What we know so far

by ConstructionFeatured News

Details of the incident Old Stock Exchange fire

The Old Stock Exchange in Copenhagen, one of the city’s most notable historic buildings, has been severely damaged by fire.

The 17th-century structure, known locally as Boersen, experienced the collapse of its iconic spire and significant roof damage.

The building, located adjacent to Christiansborg Palace, houses the Danish Chamber of Commerce and is a key tourist attraction due to its distinctive dragon tail-shaped spire.

Emergency response and evacuations

Emergency services were quickly on the scene as huge plumes of smoke filled the skies over downtown Copenhagen.

Police initiated evacuations in nearby buildings, including an annex of the Danish parliament and the Finance Ministry.

Jakon Engel-Schmidt, Danish Culture Minister, praised the public’s efforts in aiding the rescue operations: “It was touching to see how passers-by helped emergency services to save art treasures and iconic images from the burning building.”

Impact and ongoing precautions

The cause of the fire remains unclear, but its occurrence during renovations raises questions about the circumstances.

Copenhagen police have advised the public to avoid the area, which has seen significant disruptions including the closure of a major road.

Brian Mikkelsen, head of the Danish Chamber of Commerce, actively participated in efforts to salvage valuable items from the fire.

Public and official reactions

Officials and the public have expressed their shock and concern over the fire.

The building, constructed in 1615 and a pivotal part of Denmark’s historical heritage, now faces a period of assessment and recovery.

The full extent of the damage is still being evaluated, but the loss of the spire is a profound blow to the city’s architectural legacy.

IFSJ Comment

The fire at Copenhagen’s Old Stock Exchange is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in maintaining historical structures.

The swift response from emergency services and the public’s active involvement in rescue efforts demonstrate a commendable community spirit.

This incident underscores the need for rigorous safety protocols during renovation works and the importance of rapid response and effective disaster preparedness strategies.

BuildData Group announces rebranding of all divisions to Zutec

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured News

Overview of the rebranding initiative

BuildData Group has consolidated its various brands, including Createmaster, Createmaster Information Management, and Resi-Sense, under the single name of Zutec.

This move aims to streamline the group’s identity and operations, providing a cohesive approach to managing building data through a unified digital platform.

Based in London, UK, this rebranding is intended to enhance the delivery of cloud-based software solutions across the construction and property industries in the UK and Ireland.

By operating under a single brand, Zutec is set to offer a comprehensive touchpoint for digital ecosystem solutions across its client base.

The rebranding effort aligns with the industry’s shift towards digital technology adoption, spurred by new regulations and sustainability challenges.

Zutec’s solutions are designed to address compliance with various building safety and sustainability requirements.

Impact on industry and technology adoption

The integration under the Zutec brand emphasises the importance of digital solutions in modern building management.

The company’s software suite covers areas critical to compliance and management, including fire safety, sustainability, and asset information management.

These solutions cater to over 500 clients, including notable firms like Kier Group and Taylor Wimpey, highlighting Zutec’s broad acceptance and implementation.

Zutec’s technology suite, encompassing Document Management, Quality Management, Handover Management, and Asset Management, has become integral to companies striving to meet stringent regulatory standards and optimise building management practices.

This unified approach not only streamlines operations but also supports a more integrated strategy for data management and compliance adherence.

Executive insights on the rebranding

Gustave Geisendorf, CEO of Zutec, emphasised the strategic importance of this transformation: “It is now more important than ever that all building asset data is accurate, accessible, and understandable, particularly as the Building Safety Act framework comes into full force, and new regulations and standards are rolled out.”

He highlighted the role of Zutec’s SaaS platform and its comprehensive solutions in leading the convergence of construction technology (ConTech) and property technology (PropTech).

Geisendorf further added: “As one company, with pooled expertise, Zutec will join the dots in a combined vision, and remain dedicated to staying one step ahead in building digitisation.

Importantly, it will give customers peace of mind with better connected and structured data as the industry continues to digitise and moves towards a golden thread of information.”

IFSJ Comment

The rebranding of BuildData Group’s various brands into Zutec represents a thoughtful response to the evolving demands of the construction and property industries.

By consolidating its offerings under one unified brand, Zutec is poised to enhance its service delivery and impact on digital transformation in these sectors.

This strategic alignment allows Zutec to effectively address the increasing complexities and requirements of building data management, promoting a more connected and sustainable approach to building construction and maintenance.

The grass is greener with Bull Products

by Breaking NewsConstructionPassiveSafety

Carl Leeson, Head of Sales at Bull Products, explains how they are taking a lead on sustainable practices in the fire safety sector

According to the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC), buildings are currently responsible for 39% of global energy related carbon emissions.

This breaks down into 28% from operational emissions, such as energy needed to heat, cool and power them, and the remaining 11% from materials and construction.

The WorldGBC continues to explain that the global building stock is expected to double in size and carbon emissions released before the built asset is used, what is referred to as ‘upfront carbon’, will be responsible for half of the entire carbon footprint of new construction between now and 2050.

In its report, “Bringing Embodied Carbon Upfront: Coordinated action for the building and construction sector to tackle embodied carbon”, the WorldGBC has set out a clear vision.

It aims for all new buildings, infrastructure and renovations to have at least 40% less embodied carbon with significant upfront carbon reduction, and for all new buildings to have net zero operational carbon by 2030.

By 2050, new buildings, infrastructure and renovations will have net zero embodied carbon, and all buildings, including existing buildings must be net zero operational carbon.

Construction leaders are pulled in many directions from meeting stringent regulations on health and safety, trying to control costs and maintain efficient processes, whilst still trying to reduce energy costs and their carbon footprint.

This is on top of delivering innovative buildings that deliver the latest design features, future-proof technology and are healthier and greener.

We understand the challenges our customers face and are developing greener strategies to support them with sustainability.

Many companies and organisations might say that they believe in a sustainable business agenda but too few are delivering the changes in working practices that are necessary to reduce carbon emissions and their subsequent impact on the environment.

The leadership team here at Bull Products has always been dedicated to ethical and socially responsible business practices and our environmental commitment is resolute, positive, and focused on the benefits that it brings to us as an organisation as well as our customers.

We want to help our customers reduce their carbon footprint to meet their pledges and commitments.

Our Fire 360° and asset management services are an excellent starting point in reducing CO2 emissions.

Through these services, we not only address immediate fire safety concerns but also optimise asset usage and efficiency, thereby minimising carbon emissions associated with inefficient operations and resource wastage.

This approach ensures that our efforts towards carbon reduction are impactful and sustainable from the outset.

Our clear objective is to be carbon neutral by 2030 and that is why we launched our Green Bull division; making a significant investment into a Green Bull bespoke facility to refurbish equipment.

Our fire alarm products at Bull Products have received the ‘Made in Britain’ collective mark, which represents a standard of quality and unity for the British manufacturing sector within the UK and around the world.

Being manufactured in the UK means lower transportation needs, reducing CO2 emissions.

Top of Form

Recover, revive and reuse

Through Green Bull, we are fully equipped to Recover, Revive and Reuse our products when it is safe and practical to do so.

Fire protection equipment, including fire extinguishers, fire alarms, stands and trolleys, are recovered from sites to the Green Bull facility to be revived, incorporating the majority of the original components, to produce a finished product in full working condition, compliant with all relevant regulations for re-use.

The disposal of safety products to landfill when a building development is completed occurs far too frequently.

It’s a waste of resources, and adversely affects carbon emissions through the disposal process.

Our initial assessment is that we will be able to refill and, therefore, recirculate back into the market around 35-40% of water and foam fire extinguishers, making a more environmentally friendly alternative available to our customers.

This will reduce transportation costs, product manufacturing and material costs and ultimately carbon impact.

We have calculated that by reviving and reusing products we can make significant carbon reductions for our customers.

For instance, by refilling our foam extinguishers we can save 1.2 trees per extinguisher and by refilling our water extinguishers we can save 0.7 trees per extinguisher.

The Green Bull range

Fire Extinguishers: We have a full range of regulation-compliant fire extinguishers, which means we can keep your workplace safe, whatever your environment and risks.

Through Green Bull, we can revive water and foam extinguishers so you can re-use.

SiteProtect wireless fire detection and alarm system: Utilising patented Cygnus technology, SiteProtect is a 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system, designed for performance and reliability.

First Responder Stations: Our First Responder Stations have been designed to suit safety requirements on construction sites and are available in five standard options, Fire Safety, First Aid, Spill Control, Rail and Work at Height.

Trolleys & Stands: We provide a range of Fire Extinguisher Trolleys that have been designed to provide an accessible, convenient, and safe solution for storing fire safety equipment.

Fire 360°

Bull Products is a specialist in fire safety on construction sites and has an in-depth understanding of the complex legislation that covers this environment.

The Fire 360° service is developed to handle the intricacies of this field and Bull Products will be on-hand to oversee and advise customers throughout to ensure a friction-free experience at every stage of the process, from initial enquiry through to final installation.

As well as streamlining processes, Fire 360° has significant sustainability credentials.

Our streamlined processes allow for the collection, inspection, and safe storage of equipment on-site, enabling its reuse.

This not only supports our customers in achieving efficient site operations but also aids in meeting carbon reduction targets effectively.

Green Bull is now an integral part of Bull Products and its sustainability strategy.

If you would like to learn more about it, visit https://www.bullproducts.co.uk/en-gb/about-us/green-bull/  

Bull Products at The Fire Safety Event

At this year’s Fire Safety Event, Bull Products will be showcasing its new Green Bull initiative, aimed at promoting environmental sustainability by facilitating the safe recovery and reuse of fire protection equipment.

Visitors can also expect to see first-hand Bull Products’ extensive fire detection and alarm systems, including the versatile SiteProtect range and EN 54 certified, wireless SiteNet solution, alongside a variety of its other ranges, including its Lockdown Alarms, and First Responder stations.

Visitors will also be able to learn more about Bull Products’ Fire 360° service, which has been developed to handle the intricacies of fire safety on construction sites.

It ensures the team is on-hand to oversee and advise customers throughout their journey.

Equipment can also be collected from site, inspected and stored safely ready for re-use, supporting customers to deliver efficient sites and meet carbon reduction targets.

Bull Products’ range of alarms also carry the ‘Made in Britain’ collective mark providing customers with peace of mind on the quality of the products and their sustainability.

“The Fire Safety Event serves as an invaluable platform for connecting with our customers and the wider industry and we can’t wait to return for 2024,” says Leeson.

“We will be showcasing a range of product solutions and highlighting our commitment to sustainability through our Green Bull division.

“It’s not just about presenting cutting-edge technology; it’s about reaffirming our dedication to creating safer environments whilst minimising our ecological footprint.

“We look forward to sharing our vision for a greener, safer future with attendees.”

Green Bull champions ‘Recover. Revive. Reuse.’ as Bull Products is the first company which is fully equipped to revive products and supply them for re-use to customers when it is safe and practical to do so.

Green Bull helps customers and partners meet their obligations to reduce CO2 emissions and is part of Bull Products’ wider mission for carbon neutrality by 2030.

Among the highlights on Bull Products’ stand will be its SiteProtect wireless alarm system, which sets the benchmark in innovation and versatility in wireless emergency fire, first aid and intruder alarms for construction sites.

Designed for performance and reliability, SiteProtect is ideal for challenging environments such as underground projects or sites with dense concrete as its wireless mesh technology, which utilises patented Cygnus technology, is robust and dependable.

Alongside this will be the EN 54 certified SiteNet range, a robust, reliable, and scalable wireless solution, comprising a control panel and six different fire call point, detection and alarm devices with multiple configurations and settings and first aid alert functionality.

Featuring self-forming and self-healing wireless patented mesh protocol technology, SiteNet provides a cause-and-effect programming capability for timed and zone-controlled evacuations making it the perfect fire-safety solution for any temporary project.

Bull Products will also have on display its other alarm ranges such as its Lockdown alarm.

Additionally, Bull Products will exhibit its range of First Responder Stations that have been designed to suit safety requirements on construction sites.

Available in five standard options, Fire Safety, First Aid, Spill Control, Rail and Work At Height, the First Responder Stations are available with a variety of Bull Products alarms.

Each station comes in a standard configuration; however, they can be completely customised to suit all customer requirements.

Bull Products will be exhibiting at The Fire Safety Event, 30th April – 2nd May 2024 at Birmingham NEC on Stand 5/D10.

This article was originally published in the April 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

UK’s construction sector braces for new fire safety standards as Building Safety Act transition concludes

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

PlanRadar outlines the future of fire safety post-BSA transition

As the transition period for the Building Safety Act (BSA) concludes on April 6th, the construction, real estate, and facilities management sectors are poised to experience a paradigm shift in fire safety standards.

Rob Norton, the UK Director at PlanRadar, has emphasized the critical need for enhanced efficiency and accuracy in fire safety processes, particularly in the management of safety information and record-keeping.

According to Norton, “new safety standards will demand improved speed and accuracy of fire safety processes, especially the strict management of fire safety information and record-keeping.”

Increased accountability and the ‘golden thread’ in fire safety protocols

Norton highlights that the end of the BSA transition period marks the beginning of an era characterized by increased responsibility for Responsible Persons (RPs) and the establishment of robust fire safety protocols.

“As we see increased accountability of RPs and foundations laid for watertight fire safety protocols, the golden thread will continue to dominate workflows to ensure industry compliance,” said Norton.

This approach is expected to foster a culture of meticulous compliance and efficiency across the sector.

Shift in focus to commercial properties and collaboration in construction

Looking ahead, Norton anticipates a potential shift in focus towards commercial properties, where fire safety standards currently lag behind those in residential areas.

“The focus could shift to commercial property in the near future, where fire safety standards are lagging behind residential,” Norton observed.

He also expressed hope for increased collaboration within the construction industry to enhance fire safety measures.

“The BSA is the push the industry needs, and I hope to see further collaboration in construction’s approach to fire safety, bringing greater consistency and quality to fire safety checks and strategies,” Norton added.

IFSJ comment

The conclusion of the Building Safety Act’s transition period is a pivotal moment for the UK’s construction and property management sectors.

It signals a move towards more stringent fire safety standards, requiring companies to adopt new technologies and methodologies for information management and compliance.

The emphasis on the ‘golden thread’ of information and the potential shift towards improving safety in commercial properties reflect the industry’s evolving priorities.

Norton’s comments underscore the importance of adaptability and collaboration in meeting these new challenges.

As the sector moves forward, the ability to efficiently manage and share safety information will be paramount, highlighting the role of digital solutions in facilitating compliance and enhancing overall fire safety.