Promat technical director Nigel Morrey concludes 37 year sector career

by Featured NewsPassivePeople

Nigel Morrey to retire in December

Promat Technical Director Nigel Morrey will retire at the end of December after nearly a decade at Etex Building Performance and nearly 37 years in the passive fire protection sector.

Etex Building Performance said he has overseen product performance and development for passive fire protection specialist Promat and dry walling manufacturer Siniat during that period.

The company stated that his work has focused on aligning product development, testing and system design with changing regulatory requirements.

Promat confirmed that he was appointed Technical Director of Promat in 2002 and became Technical Director of Siniat in 2016, with Etex Building Performance incorporated in January 2017.

The manufacturer added that he will step down from his role at the end of December.

Shifting standards at Promat and Siniat

According to Etex Building Performance, Nigel Morrey has led change at both Promat and Siniat to maintain high levels of performance backed by testing in response to a changing regulatory environment.

Siniat was one of the first companies in the UK to secure Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) verification, and introduced classification as standard on its dry wall products to evidence fire performance.

Within Promat, the company said he has driven the move from British Standards (BS) fire test standards to European (EN) standards, supporting a system based approach to passive fire protection.

He has also overseen the development of specialist fire board protection systems designed to meet changing construction demands, including increased use of structural steel.

Etex Building Performance reported that, most recently, he led the decision for the business to take design liability for systems across both the Siniat and Promat brands to reduce the burden of risk on principal designers following the Building Safety Act.

Nigel Morrey, Technical Director at Promat, said: “It has been an honour to be part of the significant achievements of both Promat and Siniat.

“Working within Promat the emphasis is clearly on passive fire protection, and to me it made sense that we applied those same rigorous testing regimes to Siniat dry walling.

“It is the success that we have achieved in creating a genuinely market-leading level of tested systems that has been most rewarding – in particular the move to classifying systems.

“This journey has taken us from historical BS tests to more recently being an early adopter of EN standards, EXAP testing and classification.

“It has taken many years and has seen us carry out over 120 full scale fire tests each year but has allowed us to become technical leaders in the UK.

“This level of test data not only reduces the risk taken by designers, it crucially supports the construction of buildings that are safer for those who occupy them.

“Likewise, it was a bold decision for us to take design liability but it is the right thing to do; to take the risk away from others and enshrine the design of life critical systems in demonstrated competency.

“Most of all though it has been about the people, and it has been great to be part of that team.

“We have created an environment that nurtures technical excellence and embraces learning, with a team that is passionate about their technical development.

“This is what I have loved being a part of and we have built great foundations to move forwards on.”

Industry roles and focus on competency

Etex Building Performance highlighted that Nigel Morrey’s expertise has been recognised through a series of industry roles.

He has served as both Chair and Vice Chair of the Association of Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), and has been a member of its Council and Strategy Groups.

He has also represented ASFP on Expert Panel D, Passive Fire Protection at the Loss Prevention Council Board.

Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, he was invited to chair the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) Fire Safety Group, and served as a director of the Finishes and Interiors Sector across what the company described as important years for the industry.

The company said he has consistently promoted the importance of competency for accurate specification, use and installation of passive fire protection.

Etex Building Performance reported that 35 current members of staff have passed the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 3 in Passive Fire Protection, with a further 17 currently working towards the qualification.

Awards and recognition for Nigel Morrey

Promat stated that in 2024, Nigel Morrey received the ASFP Lifetime Achievement award for his work to raise awareness of passive fire protection and his commitment to improving fire safety.

In 2025 he became a lifelong fellow of the Institution of Fire Engineers.

The company said these honours reflect his long standing involvement in shaping passive fire protection practice and guidance.

John Sinfield, Country Manager for Etex Building Performance, said: “Nigel is one of a kind and we will miss him immensely.

“His knowledge of passive fire protection, and the passion he has to drive change has left a lasting legacy of high standards – and, in turn, safer buildings.

“The passion he has brought to the role was infectious, and the team at Etex Building Performance look forward to continuing to build on the impressive work he has achieved.”

How testing, classification and design liability affect practice

The decision by Etex Building Performance to take design liability for systems across Siniat and Promat reduces the burden of risk on principal designers after the Building Safety Act.

This approach means fire engineering consultants and architects can work with system designs where responsibility for performance evidence sits with the manufacturer.

The move from BS fire test standards to EN standards at Promat supports a system based view of passive fire protection rather than a focus on individual components.

This is relevant for fire engineering consultants, building services engineers and system installers who need tested system data when specifying fire board protection around structural steel or other elements.

Siniat’s early CCPI verification and the introduction of classification as standard on its dry wall products provide clearer evidence of fire performance for specifiers and risk assessors.

The programme that has seen 35 staff members achieve IFE Level 3 in Passive Fire Protection also affects contractors and designers who interact with Etex Building Performance, as they are more likely to work with teams holding recognised qualifications.

Recognition from ASFP and the Institution of Fire Engineers shows that the technical frameworks established under Nigel Morrey’s leadership are aligned with wider industry bodies that influence passive fire protection practice.

ASFP Awards 2025 reveal the passive fire projects setting new benchmarks

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsPassive

ASFP Awards 2025 mark record entry levels

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) celebrated the ASFP Awards 2025 with a record field of entries recognising achievements in passive fire protection across the built environment.

The organisation said the ceremony highlighted individuals, companies and projects that have advanced safety and professionalism in the sector.

ASFP reported that categories covered installation projects, innovation, digital tools, training, marketing, customer service, advocacy and long-term contribution.

The 2025 awards formed part of its 50th birthday year activities.

Project and innovation winners span heritage and redevelopment

ASFP reported that Checkmate Fire Solutions won Small-Scale Installation Project of the Year for its passive fire protection upgrades at Springfield Mount for the University of Leeds.

The association stated that the scheme involved a series of Victorian residential buildings and was recognised for combining sensitive heritage refurbishment with current fire-safety requirements on a project under £1 million.

Kilnbridge Fire Protection received Large-Scale Installation Project of the Year for its role in the Olympia redevelopment.

ASFP said the Kilnbridge team coordinated more than 32,000 compliant passive fire protection installations across one of the UK’s most complex multi-plot sites.

Siderise was named Innovation Project of the Year for a pleated rainscreen cavity barrier solution developed for the G-Gate building at Olympia.

According to ASFP, the bespoke design addressed the building’s unconventional façade geometry and was cited as an example of collaborative fire safety engineering.

Quelfire won Digital Innovation of the Year for its QuelSelector tool.

The association described QuelSelector as an intuitive, free-to-use system that supports firestopping product selection and compliance by reducing errors and improving workflow efficiency across the supply chain.

ASFP Awards training and academic achievements recognised

ASFP stated that Siderise, Corrodere and Isoler received Training Recognition awards.

The association said these organisations were acknowledged for training programmes that link regulatory requirements, product knowledge and on-site installation practice.

Level 2 and Level 3 Academic Achievements were awarded to Stephen Richards of Avert Fire and Rick Cullen of Intoheat.

ASFP reported that Stephen Richards achieved the highest score at Level 2, while Rick Cullen achieved the highest score at Level 3.

The association noted that these academic awards recognised emerging professionals who are investing in their technical development in passive fire protection.

Customer service, advocacy and lifetime honours announced

ASFP confirmed that Quelfire also received Marketing Campaign of the Year for its “Because It’s Your Job to Know” campaign.

The association said the campaign was recognised for promoting shared responsibility in passive fire protection practice.

GSI Contract Services and Nullifire were named Supplier Relationship of the Year.

ASFP stated that the partnership was highlighted for its collaborative technical approach, including the launch of GSI’s training academy supported by Nullifire.

Optima Systems received Customer Service of the Year for the work of its OPTech team.

The association said the team was recognised for delivering rapid, evidence-based guidance that supports compliance on complex projects.

Margherita Mullis of Promat was named Rising Star of the Year.

ASFP reported that she was recognised for work across product development, regulatory alignment and cross-industry collaboration.

Nineteen Group received Advocate of the Year.

The association cited its role in promoting fire safety awareness across the construction and events sectors.

ASFP presented the Lifetime Contribution Award to Niall Rowan.

The association said he was honoured for decades of work to improve standards, deepen technical understanding and promote a safer built environment.

Past winners of the Regatta Challenge were also recognised, with Belgrade Insulations, Consort and CLM Fireproofing receiving their trophies at the ceremony.

ASFP reflects on 50th anniversary awards

ASFP said the awards provided an opportunity to review progress in passive fire protection as the association marked its 50th year.

The organisation added that the event showcased the breadth of activity across project delivery, training, innovation and advocacy.

Mike Ward, ASFP Managing Director, said: “The ASFP Awards 2025 highlighted the shared commitment across the sector to continued improvement.

“Each winner represents the very best of passive fire protection – a community dedicated to safeguarding lives and the future of the built environment.

“Thank you to all the nominees, sponsors, and our incredible team of internal staff who made this year happen so smoothly.

“It was an honour to host this industry-leading event on the ASFP’s 50th birthday year.

“2025 has been a whirlwind of successes, and we vow not to slow down anytime soon.

“2026 promises to be a year of innovation, expansion, and shared collaboration.

“See you all at next year’s awards.”

AEI Cables urges expert guidance on fire-safe cables amid market confusion

by Featured NewsPassiveSafety

AEI Cables highlights confusion over new rules

AEI Cables has urged those responsible for specifying and procuring fire performance cables to seek expert technical advice amid what it describes as growing confusion around new legislation and compliance.

The company said many decision-makers in the supply chain are facing difficult choices about fire-safe products and may be unsure how to interpret current requirements.

AEI Cables stated that technical specialists within the company and within member organisations are available to support project teams who are uncertain about product selection.

Stuart Dover, General Manager of AEI Cables, said: “There seems to be a lot of confusion in the marketplace at the moment around new legislation which makes the selection of cables even more difficult.

“We are advising those who are faced with making these decisions to ask the experts.

“We have technical experts and there are industry specialists attached to member organisations.

“We would ask the decision-makers to seek another opinion if they are in any doubt because the effects of installing the wrong cables can be catastrophic.”

Fire performance cable categories and their uses

According to AEI Cables, clarity on the different fire performance categories is central to making appropriate choices for individual systems.

The company explained that Category 1 fire performance cables provide 30 minutes of fire resistance and are typically used for emergency lighting circuits.

Category 2 fire performance cables are described as offering 60 minutes of protection and are commonly installed for fire alarm systems.

For firefighting situations, AEI Cables noted that extended circuit integrity is required, with Category 3 fire performance cables specified to withstand exposure to fire for up to 120 minutes.

These higher-rated cables are used to maintain emergency power for critical safety circuits in tall buildings, office developments, hospitals, shopping centres and large venues such as stadia.

Category 3 control cables in life-safety systems

AEI Cables highlighted that the guidance for Category 3 Control fire performance cables covers a range of life-safety applications.

The company said these applications include evacuation alarms for disabled occupants in care homes, emergency voice communication systems and voice alarm systems in relevant buildings.

Systems supplied by these cables also power smoke and heat extraction installations, which support firefighting operations and help maintain conditions for safe evacuation.

AEI Cables added that the specified cable designs are intended to reduce harmful smoke, toxic gases and flame spread during a fire incident.

Firetec Enhanced and BS8519 compliance framework

AEI Cables reported that its Firetec Enhanced cabling range has been approved and certified by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) to BS8519 Annex B as a Category 3 Control cable, as well as meeting Category 2 Control requirements.

The company said the British Standard Code of Practice BS8519 sets out six categories of cables, with three categories for power cables and three for control cables.

Each category in BS8519 is associated with a defined survival time of 30, 60 or 120 minutes, providing a framework for matching cable performance to the operational needs of different safety circuits.

How cable selection guidance affects building and safety projects

The information provided by AEI Cables is directly relevant for electrical contractors, system installers and fire-protection contractors who are tasked with choosing suitable fire performance cables for projects.

These groups often need to match cable survival times to specific systems such as emergency lighting, fire alarms and emergency voice communications, making the distinctions between Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 products central to their work.

For fire engineering consultants, mechanical and electrical engineers and building services engineers, the clarification around BS8519 categories provides a reference point for design decisions on critical safety circuits in tall buildings, hospitals, office complexes, shopping centres and stadia.

Facility managers in these settings also rely on compliant cabling to keep evacuation alarms, emergency voice communication and smoke and heat extraction systems operational during a fire, which AEI Cables noted can affect firefighting and evacuation conditions over 30, 60 or 120 minutes.

By drawing attention to available technical support, AEI Cables has indicated that specifiers and decision-makers who are uncertain about new legislation or about how to apply cable categories can obtain additional guidance before making purchasing decisions.

Fire Aware calls for culture shift on duty of care in fire safety supply chain

by ConstructionFeatured NewsFire DetectionPassiveSafety

Fire Aware links culture to duty of care

Fire Aware has urged the fire safety industry supply chain to raise standards and focus on duty of care through its expanding membership body.

The organisation said its core message is that working in fire safety involves a moral responsibility as well as legal compliance.

Fire Aware framed its work around protecting people, arguing that the buildings and fire protection measures delivered by the supply chain must meet obligations to end users.

The body described fire safety work as more than a job and said activity in the sector should be treated as a vocation.

Gavin Skelly, Fire Aware CEO, said: “We are receiving a lot of positive feedback from the supply chain at all levels from large organisations to smaller businesses.

“They all want to play their part and we are asking all of those working this industry to think about their duty of care and what that means.

“We should all be following the new legislation including the new Building Safety Act as a minimum level.

“Our standards go beyond that and address the issues of best practice.

“Ultimately, we are all protecting people’s lives.

“The buildings we work on and the protection we install in all its different forms mean we are meeting our obligations.

“This is more than a job.

“Working in this industry is a vocation and should not be underestimated.”

Membership open across the fire safety supply chain

According to Fire Aware, membership is available to organisations and individuals across the fire safety industry supply chain.

The body said its members include designers, developers, asset owners and managers and other stakeholders involved in building delivery and maintenance.

Membership is also available to domestic trades, material suppliers and building management teams.

Fire Aware stated that it is engaging with sectors such as hotel and leisure, commercial landlords, private landlords and local authorities.

The organisation explained that members can provide training courses on fire safety and management, including content on relevant legislation.

Training is aimed at roles such as designers, main contractors and domestic trades, as well as material suppliers and building management functions.

Fire Aware said this approach is intended to support understanding of legal duties and practical responsibilities across different parts of the built environment sector.

Charters aim to reshape industry culture

Fire Aware said it aims to change the culture of the built environment sector through a moral code of conduct.

The organisation is developing a series of charters that set out how member companies are expected to behave when upholding their duty of care.

According to Fire Aware, these charters are designed to influence decisions in design, construction, maintenance and management activities.

The body described itself as a recognised membership organisation for the built environment and related sectors.

It said members share a common aim to work and trade responsibly in line with best practice standards.

Fire Aware linked this objective directly to the safety of the general public, indicating that culture, behaviour and technical standards cannot be separated.

The organisation repeated that new legislation, including the Building Safety Act, should be treated as a baseline rather than a ceiling for practice.

How Fire Aware’s approach supports built environment decision-makers

Fire Aware positions its membership model and charters as tools for those making decisions about fire protection in buildings.

The organisation’s focus on duty of care is relevant to designers, developers and asset owners who specify and approve fire-safety measures.

Building management teams and those responsible for hotel and leisure facilities, commercial property and rented housing can use the charters to frame expectations of contractors and suppliers.

Domestic trades and material suppliers involved in installing or providing fire-safety products are addressed through training opportunities that cover legislation and management responsibilities.

Local authorities can reference Fire Aware’s emphasis on going beyond minimum legislative requirements when assessing how duty of care is being interpreted across their estates.

By linking culture, moral responsibility and best practice, the body offers a reference point for organisations seeking to align technical compliance with wider obligations to occupants and the public.

Promat case study shows passive fire protection design for Warrington tyre distribution centre

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Promat delivers tailored fire protection for Warrington tyre warehouse

Promat has developed a passive fire protection design for Stapleton’s Tyre Services as the company moves into a refurbished 255,000 sq ft distribution centre at Hardwick Grange in Warrington.

The project forms part of a wider refit of the warehouse, with fire protection measures required to meet Building Regulations while supporting Stapleton’s operational needs.

According to Promat, the brief combined full compliance with a need to maximise usable floor area and maintain a tight project schedule.

The passive fire protection package was therefore designed around the specific geometry and construction details of the existing building.

Promat stated that early involvement at the design stage allowed its team to produce a technical specification in a short timeframe.

This specification set out where fire performance requirements could be met using a more space-efficient solution than the original proposal.

Case study focuses on mezzanine performance and retained value

The warehouse includes a three-storey mezzanine structure that Stapleton’s wished to retain as part of the move to Hardwick Grange.

James Glover, Senior Contracts Manager at ISS Property, said: “A key challenge of the move to the Hardwick Grange distribution centre was making sure the existing building retained a 3-storey mezzanine structure to maximise the storage space and retain the mezzanines original value.

“So, we were keen to see how experts in key areas such as passive fire protection could help to both streamline the project and make our use of the building as efficient as possible.”

Promat was asked to review the original fire protection concept, which included a suspended ceiling beneath the mezzanine comprising four layers of gypsum boards.

This suspended ceiling would have been time consuming to install and would have added weight to the mezzanine structure.

According to Promat, the additional loading from the original ceiling design would have reduced the live load capacity of the mezzanine to the point where it was no longer viable for Stapleton’s intended use.

The company therefore developed an alternative based on PROMATECT 250 to maintain the required 90 minutes’ fire performance while preserving live load conditions.

PROMATECT 250 replaces suspended ceiling system

Promat advised that PROMATECT 250 was selected as the core product for the mezzanine fire protection system.

The company said this solution removed the need for the four-layer gypsum suspended ceiling that had been specified previously.

PROMATECT 250 was installed in a single or double layer direct-fix arrangement rather than as a suspended ceiling.

Promat stated that this configuration reduced installation time and helped lower labour costs on the project.

The firm added that PROMATECT 250 is lighter than a multi-layer gypsum build-up, which supports a more favourable live load condition for the mezzanine.

According to Promat, the board comprises autoclaved calcium silicate spheres bound in a mineral matrix and has been specifically tested for mezzanine applications.

The resulting design was intended to deliver the 90 minutes’ fire performance required while taking up minimal space within the warehouse envelope.

Product supply, site support and contractor feedback

Promat worked with sub-contractor Archway Building Services to progress the passive fire protection specification.

The company said it provided the evidence needed to demonstrate the proposed PROMATECT 250 system could meet the fire performance requirements.

This allowed Archway Building Services and the wider project team to move forward quickly with the warehouse refurbishment.

Promat reported that it arranged a quick turnaround on product manufacture so the boards could be delivered to site in line with the installation programme.

The firm also carried out multiple site visits by its technical staff to check that the system was installed in accordance with the specification.

Harvey Brown, National Specification Manager at Promat, said: “Warehouses and distribution centres like Hardwick Grange must comply with stringent Building Regulations regarding fire safety, which can mean taking up space that would otherwise be useful for the occupants.

“By getting involved from the specification stage, we were able to provide Stapleton’s with a more space-effective way of complying fully with fire regulations.

“The passive fire protection expertise we have in-house meant this could be done in a tight timeframe, supplying a bespoke design that draws on best practice from other similar developments.”

Barry Simpson, Director of Archway Building Services, added: “The quick, accurate response we got from Promat was very welcome in allowing the initial specification to meet the requirements for the building and ensure the passive fire protection design would offer the level of protection needed, while also helping to save space in the warehouse.

“This means the risk of fire can be managed with minimal impact on day-to-day operations.”

Warehouse case study for passive fire designers

This project sets out how Stapleton’s Tyre Services, Promat and Archway Building Services approached passive fire protection within a large distribution warehouse that already contained a three-storey mezzanine.

Fire engineering consultants and building services engineers can see how an existing mezzanine structure was retained by replacing a heavy suspended ceiling design with a direct-fix PROMATECT 250 solution.

The case study details how a 90 minutes’ fire performance requirement was met while maintaining mezzanine live load capacity and usable storage space.

System installers and fire-protection contractors may be interested in the use of a lighter board product to reduce installation time and labour costs on a live refurbishment programme.

Architects and facility managers responsible for warehouse refits can refer to this example when assessing how early engagement with a passive fire protection supplier can support project scheduling and compliance.

The description of product manufacture, delivery to site and ongoing technical visits outlines a service model that may be relevant to other large warehouse schemes.

Siderise delivers fire integrity for NaturAL X façades in Birmingham

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Siderise solution supports NaturAL X brick façades

Siderise has partnered with Ash & Lacy to provide a tested passive fire protection solution for the NaturAL X Brick Cladding System on Vita Student Gough Street in Birmingham.

According to Siderise, the student accommodation development is located at the Gough Street and Suffolk Street junction and is being built in response to demand for purpose-built student housing in the city.

The scheme is due to complete in summer 2026 and will comprise high quality apartments and shared spaces across two towers of 10 and 29 storeys.

Project elevations use a masonry brick appearance alongside curtain wall glazing to bring daylight into the building.

The project team selected Ash & Lacy’s NaturAL X Brick Cladding System, a lightweight mechanically fixed brick slip solution, instead of traditional masonry.

Siderise said the approach allows the building to retain the durability and visual character of brick while using rainscreen techniques that reduce cost, installation time, labour needs and space requirements compared with conventional construction.

To meet regulatory fire performance requirements and support a safe environment for future residents, Siderise was asked to design a passive fire protection solution that could demonstrate a two hour fire integrity rating for the façades.

Project specific fire testing at Siderise Innovation Centre

Siderise explained that its RH Horizontal and RV Vertical Cavity Barriers were re-engineered for use with mechanically fixed ventilated brick slip cladding system configurations.

To verify compatibility with the NaturAL X Brick Cladding System on Vita Student Gough Street, Siderise carried out project specific fire resistance tests at its Innovation Centre in Maesteg.

Testing used a representative wall build up and drew on several relevant standards identified for the project.

The company reported that the Siderise passive fire protection system achieved an E 120 and I 60 fire resistance rating during these assessments.

This performance met the project’s two hour integrity requirement and exceeded the results recorded for competing products.

For the curtain wall sections of the building envelope, the Siderise CW-FS120 Firestop was specified to provide two hours of fire resistance at the perimeter movement joint.

This was intended to maintain compartmentation around the slab edge, helping to limit fire spread between floors at the junction between the curtain wall and the floor structure.

Cavity barrier design supports build efficiency

Siderise stated that combining the NaturAL X Brick Cladding System with Siderise RH25 Horizontal and RV25 Vertical Brick Slip Cavity Barriers contributed to a quick and methodical installation process on site.

The RV25 Vertical Cavity Barriers use a lamella core that has been tested to show that it can operate under increased compression.

Because of this tested behaviour, the system did not require intumescent pads to be installed vertically between each support rail.

Siderise said this configuration reduced material use by removing those additional components.

The reduced component count also helped to streamline installation activities, allowing contractors to make full use of the time saving properties associated with brick slip cladding.

Site services guide installation of Siderise products

Siderise Site Services provided ongoing practical support to the installation teams working on Vita Student Gough Street.

According to the company, this included delivery of product installation training sessions before and during construction.

Siderise teams also installed benchmark areas on the project to establish reference examples for how the firestops and cavity barriers should be detailed.

These activities were followed by regular visits to the site to inspect the installation of the CW-FS120 Firestop and the RH25 and RV25 Brick Slip Cavity Barriers.

Siderise said these inspections checked that the products were being installed in line with its recommendations.

The site visits also aimed to confirm that installation matched the configuration that had been tested at the Siderise Innovation Centre.

Relevance for cladding designers and site teams

The Vita Student Gough Street project brings together a lightweight brick slip façade, curtain wall glazing and a tested passive fire protection package designed for a two hour fire integrity requirement.

For architects, fire engineers and building services engineers working on tall student accommodation or similar multi storey residential schemes, the example shows how project specific testing can be used to align cavity barrier design with a particular brick slip system and façade build up.

For façade contractors, fire-protection contractors and system installers, the use of Siderise RH25 and RV25 Brick Slip Cavity Barriers and CW-FS120 Firestop illustrates how product selection, lamella core compression performance and the removal of intumescent pads between rails can influence material use and installation sequencing.

The involvement of Siderise Site Services, including training, benchmark areas and regular inspections, also highlights how manufacturers can support on site teams in matching installed details to tested configurations on high rise student housing projects.

Closing the gaps in passive fire protection with Quelfire

by Breaking NewsConstructionPassive

Craig Wells, Sales Director at Quelfire, explains how early engagement supports architects and contractors in delivering compliant, Regulation 38-ready designs

Gaps in passive fire protection still show up across projects, from unclear design responsibility to clashes that trigger costly rework.

Architects and contractors tell Quelfire they are unsure where to start, who should be taking design responsibility and identifying suitably tested solutions for incorporation into the design.

Quelfire’s answer is early engagement: design then build, with suppliers and installers involved while the scheme is still lines on a drawing.

The company supports this with practical tools and training, including CPD sessions, installer guidance and the QuelSelector for tested details.

It also promotes structured information sharing through its Information Collection Schedule and Key Considerations when Designing BWIC’s Guidance and keeps the conversation moving with video content, such as Burning Questions.

At London Build, Quelfire will show examples of systems after exposure to fire and host a panel on Gateway 2 submissions.

IFSJ Editor Iain Hoey sat down with Quelfire’s Sales Director Craig Wells to discuss industry pain points, early engagement in practice and what to expect at the show.

What are the most common gaps or questions you hear from professionals when it comes to passive fire protection?

The big theme is competency, especially among architects and design teams.

We often hear: we don’t get involved with fire, we don’t do detailed designs, we don’t have the insurance, we haven’t done this before.

It’s good when people own what they don’t know, but the industry needs people to embrace the challenge, reach out to reliable sources and get educated so they can design for compliance.

A common question is whether it should even be the architect doing it.

If a main contractor tells an architect to produce the detailed design, the next questions are: where do we start, who do we speak to and how do we know we’re on the right track? Some visit the Quelfire website and feel daunted by the number of options, so the task is to distil that into usable information.

Another gap is resource: having the right people with the right competencies, plus time and funding to do detailed designs.

There’s often so much emphasis on starting construction as quickly as possible that detailed design is sometimes left until the project is well underway on site.

How do these gaps usually appear during projects and are they linked to design, installation or trade coordination?

All of the above.

At early design stage, the questions are: Who is doing the detailed design, and do we have the relevant insurance?  On site, the consequences can be severe.

A tier one contractor told me recently 40% of the walls on one project had to be removed and rebuilt after they pushed ahead with a nominal design and later realised it was wrong.

Another contractor building a school installed dampers and walls, then found the dampers weren’t compatible with the wall system and had to rebuild.

You’ve probably seen the Get It Right Initiative’s work on rework.

The Egan report suggested around 30% of construction costs are tied to rework, which aligns with those examples.

Problems can emerge when the fire-stopping contractor arrives and discovers an incompatible wall or service, or at any stage between.

Coordination is a big one.

Getting Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) contractors to understand the significance of their part can be hard.

I was recently with a contractor that has its own in-house M&E division and even they struggle to get detailed information early enough to integrate into design.

Coordination, communication and collaboration are key.

There’s still a gap, though it is getting better.

What does early engagement mean in practice for those working on active projects in the construction sector?

Think “design then build.” Engage suppliers, manufacturers and installers while the building is still lines on a drawing.

Identify available solutions, bring them together into a compliant design and make sure that design can be physically achieved.

Space, access and sequencing matter.

It’s easy to produce a drawing; building it requires the right sequence and collaboration.

Early engagement puts more resource, time and expertise into thinking through practical delivery.

We see strong success stories where that happens.

What tools or training does Quelfire provide to help professionals build confidence and meet compliance requirements?

People need standard detail drawings and detailed designs with clear documentation that’s transparent about the test evidence.

Our QuelSelector is a simple, visual PDF that shows options for specific applications.

You can click through to the relevant standard details and then to the classification reports, so you have full visibility of suitability and evidence.

On training, we offer CPD that gives a high-level look at passive fire protection, why it is required and key considerations.

We also run sessions on early engagement, the technical support available and a suggested design process.

For installers, we provide product installation training.

The heart of what Quelfire provides is knowledge sharing: sitting down to understand what people know, what they need and what the project requires, then sharing best practice and, of course, actual tested solutions.

A key document we released in the past 12 months is our Information Collection Schedule.

It’s a spreadsheet that captures the “what, what, what and how”: what fire rating; what substrates (type and spec for floors and walls); what services (type, spec, diameters); and how the services penetrate the substrates.

It gives all the contractors and design disciplines a single document to work from and supports the golden thread and Regulation 38 handover.

If you specify the requirements and stick to the plan, your as-built should match your design.

We also have our Key Considerations when Designing BWIC’s document, highlighting factors that affect Quelfire requirements and wider requirements: aperture sizes, spacing between apertures, acoustic needs, service supports and so on.

The aim is to encourage collaboration across trades.

Wherever you are on the design-to-build journey, there is something available, from CPD to deeper technical discussions to product training.

How has Quelfire’s ‘Because It’s Your Job to Know’ campaign been received and how are you developing it further?

We’re keeping the message as it is still very much relevant, but we are refreshing the visuals so it stays fresh.

It has been well received by those who want to engage.

When we talk about competency – skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours – right behaviours are crucial to ensure individuals acquire additional knowledge and use it to good effect.

It’s about wanting to take responsibility and change.

The line is deliberately a bit provocative: it makes people ask: What is it my job to know? Why me? We want people to focus on responsibility, reach out early for advice and prioritise education and competency.

The industry is improving, but there’s a long way to go.

We’ll keep banging the drum that fire-stopping is complex, important and best delivered through early engagement.

Your Burning Questions series is returning this October – what is it and what themes will you cover this season?

Burning Questions is a YouTube series for education and knowledge sharing.

Series two starts in October with new guests.

We’re widening the lens because communication, collaboration and coordination are crucial.

Tom Hughes from Safer Sphere will discuss the principal designer role under the Building Safety Regulator’s Gateway 2 requirements.

Joe Hart from Delta Fire Engineering will talk about fire engineering and guidance.

We’ll also have voices from other manufacturers and suppliers.

Chelsea Green from Encon, a long-standing industry professional and distributor of building materials, will speak about competency and training.

Stevan Grkinic from MIDFIX will cover fixings for both fire-stopping installation and the M&E services themselves.

Those are just some of the names we have so far, and there are more guests in the pipeline -t he more e people across the supply chain who champion competency, the better.

What will Quelfire showcase at London Build and why is the event a key industry platform?

London Build is a key event for us because of its location and its broad reach across the construction industry.

At some fire-focused shows, it can feel like we’re preaching to the converted; London Build brings a wider audience – dry liners, plumbers, M&E contractors and designers – which aligns with our campaign.

Our stand will bring the campaign to life with strong visuals.

We’ll display materials, products and systems that have been exposed to fire so people can see, very plainly, what a burnt fire-stop system looks like and what good looks like on the other side of the wall.

It’s a way to show the importance of getting it right through early engagement.

We’re also hosting a panel session on the first day, 20 November, Titled: “Gateway 2: What We Know Now.” The idea is to bring experts together to share experiences of Gateway 2 submissions and, hopefully, successful outcomes.

There’s a lot of interest and concern around Gateway 2 and we want to share best practice and positive experiences.

How do you see education in fire-stopping progressing over the next years and what role will Quelfire take?

Demand for education across the industry is strong and encouraging.

The days of bribing people to attend CPDs with a free lunch feel like they’re fading.

Some architects we work with are booked well into next year, which is great.

People are treating education as an investment, not just a lunchtime tick-box.

Quelfire wants to remain at the forefront as a trusted adviser.

We are passionate about getting it right and sharing best practice.

Of course, we’ll share the solutions Quelfire can offer, but that is almost secondary.

The priority is making sure people are genuinely safe in buildings.

We expect to be a big player in training and knowledge sharing.

This was originally published in the November 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Platforming passive fire protection: Mike Ward talks the future of the ASFP

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPassive

Mike Ward, Managing Director of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection, reflects on fifty years of the ASFP advancing competence, clarity and collaboration across the built environment

Passive fire protection often slips from view when project decisions are set.

It sits beside alarms, pumps and vehicles, yet its success depends on choices that begin at concept and run through design, installation and inspection.

In this extended conversation, Mike Ward, Managing Director of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection, sets out how the ASFP is centring competence, earlier engagement and usable guidance, and why that now includes a defined platform at Intersec.

Why passive needs its own platform

Ward begins with a clear observation about how passive fire has been presented at large shows and inside multi-topic project teams.

“Last year we took a bit of a fact-finding trip and then met with Messe Frankfurt,” Ward says.

“My point to them was that on the fire side of Intersec everything gets mixed together.

“You can have a small sprinkler stand next to NAFFCO’s big airport fire engines, next to a box that goes ping, next to a tube of something that claims to solve all ills on a construction site.

“Passive fire is different from boxes that go ping or tanks painted red.”

The platform ASFP sought is about timing and responsibility: “It’s about bringing the passive sector into the design and construction conversation far earlier,” Ward explains.

“Using the new golden thread tools linked with BIM brings the sector front and centre in its relationship with the principal designer and principal contractor.”

ASFP has confirmed plans for Intersec in Dubai that reflect this approach.

The association will lead a Passive Fire Protection zone within the UK Pavilion, positioned near the Fire Safety Theatre, with a programme focused on practical design decisions and clear routes to evidence.

The intention is to make passive fire visible as a defined set of responsibilities and to point visitors to content they can apply on live projects.

Competence, the register and the Pass Mark

Professionalisation in practice starts with role clarity and proof of knowledge.

The ASFP pathway maps expectations across manufacturers, installers, testers, certifiers and designers, then sets out how competence is demonstrated and recorded.

“This is about bringing together the competency framework for manufacturers, installers, testers, certifiers and designers so they can evidence competence through a framework and register,” Ward says.

“That links to more robust schemes here and tracks through to the ASFP Pass Mark.

“The Pass Mark is an independent mark run by ASFP that sits above standard membership.”

The structure is designed to support duty holders, clients and contractors.

It simplifies selection, helps designers understand that specifications can be delivered as drawn, and builds a consistent record along the golden thread so approvals and maintenance stand on firm ground.

“The goal is for the passive sector to be seen as professional, to be brought into the design and construction conversation earlier, and to use golden thread tools linked with BIM so the sector is front and centre alongside the principal designer and principal contractor,” Ward says.

“There’s a whole story to tell here.”

Guidance that supports daily decisions

A framework is only useful if teams can reach for documents that work under time pressure.

ASFP has advanced a pipeline of publications that shift attention to early planning and whole-system thinking.

At the centre is the Green Book for fire doors, drawn from TG10 and set out to treat door sets as systems through the life of a building, not as isolated products at handover.

The approach encourages early engagement with users, mapped responsibility across disciplines, and digital records that support inspection and maintenance.

It recognises the range of door types and components now in use and the way poor specification or reactive upkeep can turn essential assets into liabilities.

Closing the gaps at interfaces

Some of the most persistent problems appear where trades meet.

The space behind the façade is a frequent source of uncertainty because duties overlap and change as products are substituted.

ASFP is convening a new technical group to examine this zone alongside façades, windows and fit-out specialists.

The scope includes movement, junctions and the downstream effects when a product is swapped without checking its neighbour.

Guidance will include straightforward details and a focus on recording decisions so inspectors and future maintainers can see what was installed and why.

“We’re entering the external envelope space and creating a new technical group for passive measures behind façades,” Ward says.

“We’ve got the Centre for Window Technology, FIS and several members engaged.

“The first meeting is planned for the end of January.

“It’s a missing piece in passive – the space between inner walls and the outer wall.

“What does that look like from a passive fire point of view?”

Ward’s stance on materials is direct: “We just want to make sure it works.”

People, culture and outreach

Competence also relies on people, wellbeing and entry routes.

The ASFP Academy now spans Awareness, Introduction, Diploma and Foundation levels, with new courses in development to address gaps.

Work is underway with SFJ Awards on an independent assessment service that can provide credible evidence of competence, beginning with design and specification then expanding to other roles.

The association has launched a mental health pack that sets out simple, practical steps employers can take, encourages open conversation and signposts to specialist support.

The Young Leaders Group features in Council activity, reflecting the need to attract new entrants.

ASFP has joined Climate Action for Associations to embed sustainability aims in its operations and in the guidance it promotes.

The communications approach mirrors how people learn and share now.

ASFP TV and short-form clips translate theatre sessions and site lessons into two-minute explainers that can be watched on a phone and used in toolbox talks.

“I’m handing the reins of social media over because I’m old and no one wants to see old people on social,” Ward says.

“If you go to TikTok and search ‘everything PFP’ you’ll see our channel.

“Others are starting to do similar things, which is fine.

“How people consume information is different from ten or twenty years ago.

“It takes three times the effort to stay ahead of the pack, but we’re happy for people to follow.”

Reece Goodman has returned as PR and Membership Engagement Officer to drive this activity, oversee the EverythingPFP channel and develop member-facing content that supports recruitment and outreach alongside the Young Leaders Group.

https://www.tiktok.com/@everythingpfp/video/7569211257950096662

A year of touchpoints, with Intersec in view

The calendar provides a rhythm that runs from regional rooms to international halls.

Through the year ASFP has appeared at national trade shows with theatre activity, paired its AGM with a London technical seminar, and run regional days including Scotland and London.

Webinars and Academy sessions support those who cannot travel, and the ASFP Awards Lunch will round out the year.

On awards, Ward sets out what they represent.

“The ASFP is proud to represent all those in the passive fire community who look to evidence their commitment to improving quality, standards, and competency within the built environment by virtue of their membership of the association,” Ward says.

“The pinnacle of this is those members who put forward their nominations for the ASFP awards, knowing their nomination will come under scrutiny, but having the confidence in themselves to put it forward all the same.

“Whether being shortlisted or winning, the mere confidence and commitment to apply is what makes the ASFP awards such a great event.

“The quiet, meaningful morality of ASFP members is the loudest voice in the industry; this one fact alone is never lost on me, thank you to all those who applied, good luck to all nominees on this, the fiftieth anniversary of the ASFP.

“It’s going to be a very special event indeed.”

Those touchpoints lead into the Intersec plan.

ASFP will lead the Passive Fire Protection zone within the UK Pavilion near the Fire Safety Theatre and run theatre content focused on competence and early design decisions, supported by a show brochure and daily media.

Rather than presenting passive as a catalogue of products, the programme concentrates on decisions that change day-to-day work.

Ward’s team expects short interviews on the stand and in the theatre to run across social channels during the show so the message reaches people who are not on site.

“We’ll run a full ASFP TV social media campaign across the three days,” Ward says.

“Reece is coming to do on-stand interviews with exhibitors, film at the theatre, talk to presenters and panellists, and speak with Emirates Safety Laboratory.”

The pavilion set-up follows the same logic of clarity and access.

ASFP will host a small pavilion of exhibiting members, each with its own branding, promoted by Messe Frankfurt as the ASFP pavilion, with an ASFP stand integrated with or adjacent to the space.

The third day includes a full programme in the Fire Theatre on professionalising passive fire.

Sessions will include the latest work on competency frameworks, the forthcoming ASFP Design Guide, and the Green Book for fire doors.

Panel sessions will include employers from exhibiting members so visitors can hear directly from teams applying these approaches in practice.

A longer horizon sits behind the show plan.

“This is baby steps for the first one,” Ward says.

“We have a five-year plan with Messe Frankfurt to develop passive as a distinct consideration – not siloed, because everything is interdependent, but visible.

“Unless you break it out and shine a light on it, it gets lost in the noise.”

Asked what readers should take from the year ahead, Ward returns to first principles:

  • Early involvement creates clarity.
  • Role-based competence gives confidence.
  • Documents that show tested detail reduce friction from concept to sign-off.

“Bringing the passive sector into the conversation earlier is what changes outcomes,” Ward says.

“The calendar is set up to keep that message in front of designers, contractors and clients throughout the year.”

This was originally published in the November 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.

Promat sustainability data supports embodied carbon decisions in UK projects

by Featured NewsPassiveSafetySustainability

Promat expands EPD coverage across portfolio

Promat has published Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for 86% of its products sold within the Etex Building Performance UK division, providing third-party verified sustainability data to support passive fire protection specification.

The UK based manufacturer said the move forms part of its ClearChange sustainability programme, which aims to increase transparency for customers using its board products.

According to the company, the published EPDs cover the majority of board products in its current portfolio and give specifiers a basis for comparing options on environmental performance.

Promat stated that the declarations are designed to help customers make more informed choices and, in some cases, reduce the environmental footprint of projects where its products are used.

The company added that EPDs also act as a tool for manufacturers, helping them identify material choices, production stages and supply chain elements that can reduce embodied carbon across their ranges.

EPDs detail embodied carbon and lifecycle data

Promat explained that its EPDs are the result of assessments that are independently verified for impartiality and aligned with ISO 14025 and EN 15804+A2/A1.

The firm said a dedicated internal team works to ensure that its products and technologies are progressively covered by EPDs.

Current EPDs include Promat medium density calcium silicate boards such as PROMATECT, SUPALUX and MASTERBOARD, which are used in building and industrial applications.

The declarations provide upfront embodied carbon figures for the boards and include information on packaging, waste treatment and end-of-life recycling.

Promat reported that this lifecycle approach allows the total embodied carbon of the passive fire protection boards to be evaluated rather than focusing only on initial production.

The company noted that this level of detail is intended to support customers who are working to meet environmental targets alongside fire-protection requirements.

Manufacturing measures support lower environmental impact

Promat said the EPDs also reflect measures taken within its manufacturing facilities to reduce environmental impact.

At its Belgium facility, the company uses a mix of hydropower, local combined heat and power (CHP) and solar energy to help mitigate the impact of the production process.

According to Promat, linking operational energy sources to product declarations gives customers additional context on how the boards are manufactured.

The manufacturer indicated that this information can be relevant for projects where both operational and embodied carbon are being assessed at design stage.

Promat added that its sustainability work is ongoing as part of the wider ClearChange programme.

ClearChange programme and customer support

Duncan Gardiner, Promat Platform Sustainability and Communications Manager, said: “We take our commitment to the environment seriously, and by offering EPDs for most of our current portfolio, we ensure our customers can do the same.

“There are some instances where EPDs are not possible, such as bespoke and complex applications, however, we are able to provide comprehensive support in these instances to ensure that our customers’ needs are met.

“Our ClearChange sustainability program demonstrates how we as a company will tackle sustainability challenges, and EPDs are the first step in ensuring we can make a tangible difference to our environmental impact.

“By delivering clear environmental impact data to support our customers, architects and specifiers, we hope to empower the industry to make informed decisions around sustainability, not only to meet regulations but to invest in a more sustainable construction sector.”

How Promat’s EPDs affect specification decisions

Promat’s publication of EPDs for most of its passive fire protection boards provides architects, fire engineering consultants and building services engineers with verified data that can be used directly in project assessments.

The lifecycle information, including upfront embodied carbon, packaging, waste treatment and end-of-life recycling routes, allows design teams to compare Promat products on environmental impact as well as fire-performance criteria.

For procurement officers, facility managers and fire-protection contractors, the declarations create a common reference point when evaluating board options for tenders or refurbishment projects that must meet corporate sustainability targets.

Risk assessors and system installers can also use the EPD data when providing advice on product selection in buildings where both fire safety and embodied carbon are under scrutiny.

By linking the ClearChange programme to independently verified EPDs that cover 86% of products within the Etex Building Performance UK division, Promat gives project teams information that can feed into building certification schemes and internal reporting processes.

Although bespoke or complex applications may not yet have EPDs, the company’s commitment to providing support in these cases means specifiers still have a route to obtain environmental information for planning purposes.

Fire testing collaboration launched to support UK building safety reforms

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsFire EngineeringPassiveResearch

Fire testing rules tighten inside the FPA UL PartB plan

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has announced a collaboration with UL Solutions and PartB to deliver independent fire testing for the UK built environment at a time of strengthened regulation and closer scrutiny of construction products.

The collaboration is outlined in a joint paper titled Testing Times: a solutions-focused collaboration for UK fire testing.

According to the FPA, the aim is to provide impartial and transparent testing services that support compliance in a sector shaped by the Building Safety Act and the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The organisations highlighted that the Building Safety Regulator’s Gateway programme and extended liability under the Defective Premises Act have increased pressure on dutyholders to evidence the fire performance of products and systems.

They stated that stakeholders now need reliable data to show that every component and assembly used in construction meets defined fire safety standards.

Independent laboratory and response to inquiry findings

The FPA said it will use its independent fire testing laboratory to host testing commissioned by UL Solutions and PartB clients in a secure and confidential environment.

The organisation stated that tests will be carried out at arm’s length from the client to protect impartiality and ensure that intellectual property and proprietary data remain confidential.

The initiative is positioned as a direct response to issues raised in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report around the need for independent testing to rebuild trust in the construction sector.

According to the partners, access to impartial fire performance data is intended to help clients make better-informed choices, reduce remediation costs and show a commitment to recognised good practice.

FPA Chief Executive Dr Gavin Dunn said the collaboration is intended to address gaps in how complex building systems are assessed.

Gavin Dunn, FPA Chief Executive, said: “This new collaboration addresses a critical gap in the construction sector: the need to test and certify the fire performance not just of individual products, but increasingly also the interfaces and combinations of systems that often present the greatest fire safety risks.

“Leveraging the FPA’s independent testing capabilities, UL Solutions’ certification expertise, and PartB’s engineering insight, offers a holistic approach to fire safety validation for the whole UK built environment sector.”

Roles for FPA UL Solutions and PartB

UL Solutions was described as bringing more than 130 years of global experience in testing, inspection and certification to the collaboration.

The firm’s work helps manufacturers meet regulatory requirements and obtain market access through established certification schemes.

Through this collaboration, UL Solutions and the FPA plan to offer testing of building products and systems such as wall assemblies, fire doors and joint systems.

The partners said this work will support both UKCA and CE-marking requirements for applicable products and systems.

PartB was presented as a provider of pragmatic fire safety solutions based on real-world project experience and engineering judgement.

The company’s approach is focused on offering engineered alternatives to conventional remediation, which can avoid invasive and high-cost work while maintaining safety performance.

According to PartB, its experience shows that compliance can in some cases be achieved through engineered solutions that maintain fire safety without defaulting to full-scale replacement.

Jamie Davis, PartB Group Chief Technical Officer, explained that the publication of the white paper marks an important step for the partners.

Jamie Davis, PartB Group Chief Technical Officer, said: “We are proud to announce the publication of this white paper.

“It marks a significant progress in enhancing collaboration to ensure proper testing and compliance measures.

“By sharing these insights, we aim to promote safer building environments and strengthen our commitment to innovation and technical excellence in fire risk mitigation, in a proportionate and responsible manner”

Panel session at London Build and access to the paper

The FPA said representatives from the three organisations will take part in a panel discussion on the Fire Safety Stage at London Build to explain how the collaboration relates to modern methods of construction.

The session, titled Ensuring Fire Safety in MMC: Addressing Industry Concerns, is scheduled for Thursday 20 November at 10:00.

Speakers are due to include Simon Ince, Programme Manager – UK/Europe Codes and Regulatory Services at UL Solutions, George Edwardes, Technical Director at the Fire Protection Association, and Richard Howells, Managing Director (Technical Services) at PartB.

The panel will also feature Jon Cumberlidge, Co-Founder and Director at C3 Design Approvals.

The FPA confirmed that hard copies of the joint paper will be available at the panel session and at the FPA trade stand during London Build.

The organisations added that the full Testing Times paper on the collaboration can also be downloaded online.

They stated that the collaboration is intended to support a safer, greener and higher-quality future for UK buildings by providing reliable, independent fire performance data to project teams.

How independent fire testing data could be used in practice

For architects, fire engineering consultants and building services engineers working on UK projects, this collaboration offers a route to obtain independent fire performance data on products, systems and interfaces that have been tested in an impartial laboratory environment.

For facility managers across industrial, commercial and public sectors, the availability of transparent test evidence may help in assessing existing installations and planning remediation strategies where fire safety concerns have been identified.

For system installers, fire-protection contractors and risk assessors, access to testing that covers complete assemblies such as wall systems, fire doors and joints can support more accurate specification and on-site verification of installed solutions.

For standards and certification bodies and relevant government departments, the partners’ stated focus on impartial testing and traceable data aligns with regulatory frameworks linked to the Building Safety Act, the Building Safety Regulator’s Gateway programme and extended liability under the Defective Premises Act.

For organisations working with modern methods of construction, the London Build panel and the Testing Times paper provide insight into how engineered solutions and system-level testing approaches are being applied to address fire safety concerns in newer forms of construction.