What Passive Fire Design still gets wrong and how ASFP addresses it

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassiveTraining

ASFP launches course to strengthen Passive Fire Design across the built environment

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has developed a Passive Fire Protection Design Awareness Course in response to challenges with specification and design in the built environment, the organisation said.

According to the ASFP, the course addresses design-stage decisions that can lead to recurring and costly issues during construction and installation.

The organisation added that the training is available now.

The ASFP stated that the focus is on correct design choices for passive fire materials and systems.

It said the programme is aimed at improving understanding of technical and regulatory drivers for Passive Fire Design.

The organisation indicated that the aim is to support better decisions that improve fire safety and long-term performance.

Early design decisions drive later risk

The ASFP said early-stage choices can create problems at key interfaces during build and fit-out.

It pointed to service penetrations through fire-resisting compartment walls as a frequent source of error.

The organisation also cited integration between structural fire protection and compartmentation systems as an area where coordination often breaks down.

It noted that such issues can lead to additional cost and remedial work.

The ASFP positioned the new course as a route to reduce these known risks through better design understanding.

Course content focuses on interfaces

The ASFP said participants will examine common design issues including insufficient proof of concept.

It added that poor coordination of interfaces will be covered in detail.

The organisation said the course addresses the use of incompatible materials that can compromise fire performance.

It stated that the training explains the difference between insulation and integrity requirements within passive systems.

The ASFP confirmed that risks linked to overcladding intumescent-coated structural steelwork are included.

It noted that this content is intended to align design assumptions with tested performance.

Roles and responsibilities highlighted throughout

The ASFP said the training outlines responsibilities for designers, specifiers, contractors and building owners.

It added that correct design, installation and maintenance are presented as shared duties.

The organisation stated that the course reflects on how regulatory frameworks shape those duties.

It said the objective is to clarify who does what at each stage to maintain fire performance.

The ASFP indicated that clearer role definition can reduce coordination failures at interfaces.

Regulatory context and course availability

The ASFP said the programme reflects on how the Building Safety Act influences responsibilities and compliance standards.

It added that the course positions design choices within this regulatory context.

The organisation confirmed the Design Awareness Course is available now.

It stated that participants should gain a clearer view of the technical challenges driving good Passive Fire Design.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Architects, building services engineers and fire engineers can use the ASFP course to address early-stage design decisions that later cause interface failures at service penetrations and compartment walls.

Specifiers and system installers can review proof of concept requirements to avoid pairing incompatible materials that compromise fire performance.

Structural engineers and steelwork contractors can examine the stated risks of overcladding intumescent-coated members and align choices with tested performance.

Contractors and facility managers can clarify the separation between insulation and integrity requirements so installed systems meet the intended fire-resistance outcomes.

Building owners can understand how the Building Safety Act frames responsibilities for design, installation and maintenance across the asset lifecycle.

Training officers can schedule participation now because the ASFP has confirmed the course is available.

ASFP marks milestone year with 2025 Awards shortlist across seven categories

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPassive

ASFP reveals 2025 Awards shortlist marking 50th anniversary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has revealed the shortlist for the ASFP Awards 2025.

The Awards celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership across the passive fire protection sector.

The event coincides with the organisation’s 50th anniversary and has attracted a record number of entries.

Finalists have been named across seven categories recognising projects, products, partnerships and individuals driving quality and competency within the built environment.

Installation project categories recognise scope and scale

The Small Scale Installation Project of the Year category includes Checkmate Fire Solutions for upgrades at the University of Leeds, Isoler for work at Hedworth Court and Golden Thread Fire Delay for delivery at the HWE HUB pathology centre in Watford.

In the Large Scale Installation Project of the Year category, Kilnbridge Fire Protection, R. Lewis & Co and Firesafe Installations are shortlisted for major schemes at Olympia London, the Paragon Project and Everton FC’s new stadium respectively.

The ASFP said the shortlisted projects demonstrate best practice in large and small installations, with entrants delivering technically verified, tested and compliant passive fire protection solutions.

Innovation categories highlight training and digital tools

The Innovation Project of the Year shortlist features Siderise for the G-Gate Project at Olympia, Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions for its ductwork training facility and Global HSE Group for its accredited Level 3 training programme.

Digital innovation is recognised separately, with Quelfire’s QuelSelector tool, PlanRadar’s platform for fire protection documentation and Onetrace’s QA workflow system all named as finalists.

Each of these initiatives focuses on bridging compliance gaps, improving efficiency and promoting verified knowledge transfer across the sector.

Campaigns, service and rising talent also recognised

Marketing Campaign of the Year finalists include Quelfire’s “Because It’s Your Job to Know”, UKTC’s “Let’s learn / Let’s talk” and FSI’s “Building Movement” campaign.

In the Supplier Relationship of the Year category, GSI Contract Services with Nullifire, Swegon’s Actionair brand and Novus with Rockwool are shortlisted for collaborative partnerships advancing safety and training.

Best Customer Service of the Year nominees include Optima Systems, SGD, FSI Promat and Quelfire.

Rising Star of the Year finalists are Margherita Mullis of Promat, Francesca Burkey of Saint-Gobain and Chloe Flowers of Isoler, recognising early-career professionals making strong technical and leadership contributions.

Winners to be announced at 50th anniversary ceremony

Additional honours for academic achievement, advocacy and lifetime contribution will also be presented during the ceremony.

The ASFP said an independent judging panel from across the built environment assessed all entries based on merit.

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward declared: “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.

“It’s 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.

“Thank you to all those who applied, good luck to all nominees on this, the 50th anniversary of the ASFP. It’s going to be a very special event indeed.”

The 2025 ASFP Awards will feature entertainment from comedian Simon Brodkin and a post-event lunch and drinks reception.

According to the ASFP, members and non-members alike are encouraged to attend, with full event and booking details available on the association’s website.

ASFP Awards 2025 shortlist overview

Small Scale Installation Project of the Year (Under £1 Million)

  • Checkmate Fire Solutions – Springfield Mount, University of Leeds
  • Isoler – Hedworth Court
  • Golden Thread Fire Delay – HWE HUB, Watford

Large Scale Installation Project of the Year (Over £1 Million)

  • Kilnbridge Fire Protection – Olympia London
  • R. Lewis & Co – Paragon Project
  • Firesafe Installations – New Everton FC Stadium

Innovation Project of the Year

  • Siderise – G-Gate Project, Olympia
  • Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions – Technical Insulation Training Facility
  • Global HSE Group – Level 3 Award in Understanding and Installing Passive Fire Protection

Innovation Digital Project of the Year

  • Quelfire – The QuelSelector
  • PlanRadar – UK launch of PlanRadar
  • Onetrace – Approvals (QA workflows)

Marketing Campaign of the Year

  • Quelfire – Because It’s Your Job to Know
  • UKTC – Let’s learn / Let’s talk
  • FSI – Building Movement

Supplier Relationship of the Year

  • GSI Contract Services – GSI and Nullifire
  • Swegon – Actionair by Swegon
  • Novus – Novus and Rockwool

Best Customer Service of the Year

  • Optima Systems
  • SGD
  • FSI
  • Quelfire

Rising Star of the Year

  • Margherita Mullis – Promat
  • Francesca Burkey – Saint-Gobain
  • Chloe Flowers – Isoler

Additional awards to be announced:

  • Level 2 Academic Achievement Award
  • Level 3 Academic Achievement Award
  • Advocate of the Year Award
  • Lifetime Contribution Award

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The ASFP Awards 2025 provide a detailed overview of the current direction of passive fire protection practice, with shortlisted projects spanning education, healthcare, high-rise residential, and large public venues.

For fire-protection contractors and installers, the shortlisted installation projects illustrate current benchmarks for compliant system integration and documentation.

Manufacturers and suppliers can review nominated innovation and digital projects to identify areas where technology is improving workflow, traceability and on-site verification.

Training officers and building service engineers can note the sector’s increasing focus on accredited learning, demonstrated through programmes such as Global HSE Group’s Level 3 Award and Saint-Gobain’s technical training facility.

For facility managers and fire engineers, the collaboration and customer service categories highlight the operational value of partnership-based delivery and clear communication in maintaining compliance.

This article was informed by information from the following source: The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP)

CPD certificates now included in ASFP training

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassiveTraining

ASFP confirms CPD certification for training courses

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has confirmed that all its passive fire protection training courses will now issue CPD Certificates of Attendance.

According to ASFP, the certificates will record learning hours and contribute directly to professional development records for participants.

The organisation stated that the certificates will be recognised by employers, professional bodies, and accreditation schemes, providing formal acknowledgement of skills gained.

ASFP explained that the change applies to all courses, whether delivered online or in a classroom setting.

It added that the certificates will allow delegates to record training hours and evidence their development activities in line with industry expectations.

Training hours assigned to courses

ASFP reported that its training programme now specifies the number of hours attached to each course.

For classroom-based training, Level 2 accounts for 30 hours, and Level 3 covers 42 hours.

In online delivery, awareness training is recorded as 1 hour, and introductory training is recorded as 3 hours.

The Firestopping for Installers course carries 3 hours, Level 2 options count as 8 hours, Level 2 single modules total 4 hours, and Level 3 includes 16 hours.

The association said these allocated hours ensure that delegates can consistently record progress toward CPD requirements.

Range of ASFP training courses

ASFP stated that its courses cater to both new entrants and experienced professionals working in passive fire protection.

The organisation explained that training begins with introductory online modules before progressing to qualifications that support candidates for Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 2 and Level 3 exams.

It added that courses cover the design, installation, and inspection of passive fire protection systems, providing a comprehensive learning framework.

The association noted that in-house training is also available for organisations that wish to train multiple employees together, with delegate numbers capped between 10 and 20.

It advised that bespoke courses can be arranged to meet company-specific needs across the sector.

Alignment with industry standards

ASFP explained that its training structure is designed to support industry-wide competence and aligns with the Building Safety Act.

The organisation stated that short courses such as Building Safety Act awareness and Firestopping for Installers are included in the CPD certification programme.

It confirmed that the certification framework ensures that both introductory and advanced learning achievements are formally recognised.

ASFP added that this approach supports professional accountability and ongoing compliance with competence frameworks.

Connection with IFE examinations

ASFP reported that its Level 2 and Level 3 classroom courses prepare candidates for Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) examinations.

The organisation said that the training is structured to cover the full syllabus required by the IFE while also providing additional learning resources.

It noted that candidates must book their IFE exams separately, and advised scheduling training courses in advance to ensure preparation time.

ASFP added that delegates may also complete transitional e-learning modules to move from Level 2 to Level 3 qualifications.

The body explained that these pathways reinforce the role of ASFP training in supporting formal professional certification.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The introduction of CPD certificates for ASFP training provides fire safety professionals with documented evidence of continuing education.

It ensures that both short and extended training activities can be accurately recorded in CPD logs.

For employers, this provides a verifiable measure of workforce competence in passive fire protection.

It also allows professionals to demonstrate compliance with competence requirements under the Building Safety Act and other regulatory frameworks.

CPD certificates now included in ASFP training: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced that all training courses will now issue CPD Certificates of Attendance.

The certificates will evidence learning hours and contribute to individuals’ professional development records.

ASFP confirmed that the change applies to both classroom and online training programmes.

Delegates will receive certificates listing the hours assigned to each completed course.

Classroom training includes Level 2 at 30 hours and Level 3 at 42 hours.

Online courses include awareness at 1 hour, introduction at 3 hours, Firestopping for Installers at 3 hours, Level 2 options at 8 hours, Level 2 single module at 4 hours, and Level 3 at 16 hours.

ASFP stated that the new framework ensures training achievements are recognised by employers, professional bodies, and accreditation schemes.

The association explained that the initiative supports competence standards in the fire protection sector.

It confirmed that its courses also prepare candidates for Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 2 and Level 3 examinations.

ASFP added that in-house and bespoke training options are available for companies seeking group learning.

The body said that the certification framework aligns with the Building Safety Act.

It added that training achievements can now be clearly documented and verified.

This provides fire safety professionals with evidence of CPD activity for compliance and career development.

Passive fire protection and structural movement in UK buildings

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPassive

Movement challenges in passive fire protection

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has reported on the need for greater focus on how building movement affects passive fire protection systems in the UK.

According to ASFP, structural movement can occur for several reasons, including dynamic loads, environmental pressures, material-specific behaviour, and thermal expansion during fire events.

It explained that these movements create risks for the long-term performance of firestopping systems, particularly where rigid materials are used around services or wall heads.

The body highlighted two types of movement: deflection, which is the displacement of structural elements such as slabs and partitions, and service movement, where cables, pipes, or ducts supported by soffits move and strain fire seals.

While products are available to address wall head deflection, ASFP noted that movement at service penetrations remains underrepresented in both testing and design standards.

Limitations in current UK guidance

ASFP reported that UK guidance such as Approved Document B does reference deflection movement but provides limited clarity.

The organisation explained that a nominal figure of 40mm is often used, but this is sometimes misunderstood.

It stated that the figure reflects an upper limit between unsupported elements and is not suitable as a blanket requirement across all building types or details.

ASFP added that misapplication of this value in design and installation can lead to incompatible or untestable solutions.

The association advised that further clarity is required in standards and practice to prevent overestimation or misinterpretation of movement allowances.

Testing service penetrations under movement

ASFP outlined that current fire test standards, such as BS EN 1366-3 for service penetrations, do not address service movement during fire exposure.

It explained that although BS EN 1366-4 Annex B includes a methodology for joint seal movement testing, there is little guidance on how services shifting within a sealed aperture behave in a fire.

To address this gap, Nullifire worked with Warringtonfire to create a hydraulic test rig that simulates wall movement before fire exposure.

ASFP said that the method, known as the “bouncy wall test”, aimed to replicate real-world conditions by applying stress before ignition.

The association noted that the test challenges the rigidity of current standards by reflecting the reality of long-term building use before any fire occurs.

Unrealistic movement requirements in design briefs

ASFP commented that design briefs sometimes request movement allowances of ±25mm to ±100mm, which it described as unrealistic.

It reported that movement of this scale would suggest structural deflection beyond acceptable performance.

The organisation explained that these figures can be carried forward unchallenged from early design through to procurement, resulting in unsuitable specifications.

It advised that accurate analysis of structural behaviour is needed to avoid arbitrary or excessive values being applied.

The group stated that heat maps and structural load analysis may be useful tools for setting more realistic allowances.

The role of education and engagement

ASFP emphasised the importance of early engagement between designers, specifiers, and contractors in understanding structural behaviour and passive fire protection performance.

It reported that greater awareness of material behaviour and mechanical support can help improve detailing at penetrations and deflection heads.

The association noted that training and technical dialogue are essential to prevent fire safety gaps arising from misunderstanding structural movement.

It stated that manufacturers and engineers should provide evidence-based clarity to support compliant solutions rather than rely on assumptions.

The body added that this work forms part of a wider industry effort to improve standards and testing for long-term building safety.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

For fire and safety professionals, the ASFP’s report highlights the need to consider service and deflection movement as part of passive fire protection design.

The focus on movement testing methods shows how real-world performance may differ from laboratory results.

Understanding structural behaviour helps prevent failures in firestopping systems over time.

Professionals involved in design, specification, and installation may need to engage more closely with engineers and manufacturers to align expectations with realistic structural allowances.

Passive fire protection and structural movement in UK buildings: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) reported on movement in passive fire protection.

ASFP said structural movement occurs due to loads, environmental factors, material behaviour, and thermal expansion.

It stated that this movement threatens firestop system integrity at wall heads and service penetrations.

The group said Approved Document B provides vague guidance with a nominal 40mm allowance that is often misapplied.

It reported that BS EN 1366-3 does not address service movement and BS EN 1366-4 Annex B gives limited methodology.

Nullifire and Warringtonfire developed a “bouncy wall test” to simulate real conditions.

The group said some design briefs request unrealistic allowances of ±25mm to ±100mm.

ASFP advised using structural analysis and heat maps for realistic allowances.

It said education and early engagement are necessary to improve fire safety.

The association stated that manufacturers and engineers must provide compliant, evidence-based solutions.

What’s next for ASFP? Intersec role and TikTok strategy signal new direction

by Featured NewsPassive

ASFP announces Intersec 2026 leadership role and new team member

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has confirmed two developments to increase its international profile and sector engagement.

According to the ASFP, it will lead the Passive Fire Protection Zone at Intersec 2026 in Dubai and has appointed Reece Goodman as PR and Membership Engagement Officer.

The association said the moves support its broader objectives to increase awareness of passive fire protection and build connections with professionals in the UK and internationally.

ASFP explained that these activities will focus on technical education, communications, member representation, and skills development.

It said the plans form part of a longer-term strategy to enhance professional standards and attract new talent to the fire safety sector.

ASFP to lead Passive Fire Protection Zone at Intersec 2026

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection has confirmed that it will lead a dedicated Passive Fire Protection (PFP) Zone at Intersec 2026.

The event is scheduled to take place in Dubai and is expected to attract over 52,000 visitors from across the global fire, safety and security industries.

ASFP said the PFP Zone will be located within the UK Pavilion and will focus on British standards, technical competence, and product integration.

The association stated that the area will serve as a centralised space for showcasing systems, sharing regulatory guidance, and supporting conversations between specifiers, regulators, and international buyers.

It added that exhibiting companies will receive a full turnkey support package including stand design, branding, and on-site logistics assistance.

ASFP has confirmed that three stand options are available, priced at £5,865 for 9sqm, £7,820 for 12sqm, and £11,730 for 18sqm.

Technical talks to address standards, integration, and compliance

As part of its presence at Intersec 2026, ASFP will host a series of technical presentations on passive fire protection.

Mike Ward, Managing Director of ASFP, is scheduled to present a session titled Professionalising the Passive Fire Industry, which will focus on third-party certification and sector-wide competence standards.

Additional speakers include Paul McSoley, who will discuss integrated design approaches, and Andrew Taylor, who will cover regulatory compliance frameworks.

Hannah Mansell will speak about fire door lifecycle management, while Kate Milford will address the link between accreditation and project assurance in construction.

According to ASFP, these sessions aim to encourage informed discussion, align practices across jurisdictions, and support safer building outcomes.

Reece Goodman returns as PR and membership engagement officer

ASFP has announced that Reece Goodman has been appointed as PR and Membership Engagement Officer.

The organisation said Goodman had previously worked at ASFP as Marketing Executive and later as Marketing Manager before leaving in 2024.

In his new role, Goodman will manage communications projects including the association’s TikTok channel, EverythingPFP, and deliver content focused on accessibility and awareness.

Goodman said: “I’m thrilled to be returning to the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP). I first joined the ASFP in May 2021 as the Marketing Executive, and left as Marketing Manager.

“I stepped away almost exactly a year ago to challenge myself in new ways.

“During that time away, I discovered a real passion for visual storytelling – researching a topic, crafting a narrative, and sharing it through video to inform, educate and entertain.”

ASFP said his appointment is intended to support its growing digital engagement efforts.

Skills development and member engagement to be key priorities

Goodman’s remit includes creating content and initiatives aimed at reducing skills gaps in passive fire protection.

He will work with ASFP’s Young Leaders Group to help promote industry careers and connect with early-stage professionals.

Goodman said: “My mission in this new chapter is to help bridge the skills gap in our industry.

“The ASFP has always excelled at strengthening and supporting the passive fire protection (PFP) sector, but in response to an industry-wide skills shortage, we want to attract new talent to the industry and foster a new generation of PFP professionals.”

ASFP added that his work will also include direct engagement with members.

This includes relaunching the Meet the Member series, which the association said will involve video interviews, practical demonstrations, and on-site recordings across the UK.

Goodman said the goal is to use digital storytelling to highlight the range of career paths within the sector and give members a platform to share expertise.

ASFP confirms Intersec 2026 role and hires PR and membership officer: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced that it will lead the Passive Fire Protection Zone at Intersec 2026 in Dubai.

The PFP Zone will be located within the UK Pavilion and focus on British standards and technical competence.

ASFP said the space will support conversations between international buyers, regulators, and specifiers.

The association will also host technical talks at the event, including a session by Managing Director Mike Ward.

Speakers will include Paul McSoley, Andrew Taylor, Hannah Mansell, and Kate Milford.

ASFP has also appointed Reece Goodman as PR and Membership Engagement Officer.

Goodman previously worked for the association in marketing roles before leaving in 2024.

He will manage digital communications including the TikTok platform EverythingPFP.

Goodman will also relaunch the Meet the Member series with video interviews and demonstrations.

ASFP said the appointment supports wider efforts to modernise engagement and attract new professionals to the sector.

ASFP outlines UK strategy on competence, product information and coatings guidance

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPassiveSafety

ASFP Council reports growth in standards, training and digital systems

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has reported a broad programme of developments across technical guidance, competence frameworks and training expansion.

According to ASFP, new technical documents are in development, including updates to the Grey Book Volume 1 and new guidance on intumescent coatings, fixings and non-combustibility.

A full record of ASFP publications is being compiled, with the Council also considering the creation of a centralised database of passive fire protection products.

The ASFP confirmed that revised competence standards for design, specification, sales, distribution and installation are expected later in 2025.

These frameworks will be supported by updated training offerings, including new courses and a revised tiered structure covering awareness, introduction, foundation and diploma levels.

ASFP confirms Intersec Dubai 2026 presence and events calendar

The ASFP stated that it will lead a UK presence at Intersec Dubai 2026, with a dedicated pavilion and conference programme near the Fire Safety Theatre.

The trade body also plans to produce a show brochure and multimedia outputs to highlight member participation.

Other upcoming activities include the July Academy event, a stand at London Build in November and the ASFP Awards Lunch on 27 November.

Preparations have also begun for the 2026 Regatta.

The ASFP added that it has passed a recent ISO 9001 audit with no findings and is preparing for enhanced auditing requirements due in 2026.

IT and customer systems are being upgraded, including improvements to the website and CRM.

Amanda Long reports CCPI growth and procurement changes

Amanda Long, Chief Executive of the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), has reported that more than 100 product sets covering around 1,600 items have now been assessed through the scheme.

Long said that support from ASFP members has been instrumental in driving early adoption and that ASFP was one of the first trade bodies to join as a CCPI Trade Associate.

Long stated: “Each mark represents a suite of products assessed against the CCPI’s rigorous criteria for clarity, accuracy, accessibility, and trustworthiness of product information.”

She explained that the CCPI is now working with Media Associates and specification platforms such as NBS to help architects and specifiers identify approved products.

Long added: “The recent green paper on building safety explicitly references CCPI, a clear signal that our work is resonating at policy level.”

She noted that increasing engagement is being seen from procurement professionals and contractors who are pledging to prioritise CCPI-assessed items.

CCPI highlights procurement competence and cultural change

Long said procurement practices are beginning to shift from price-led models toward evidence-based assessment.

Long stated: “With materials accounting for around 60% of project costs, informed procurement is no longer optional – it is a professional imperative.”

She said that the CCPI provides a digital record that supports traceability and accountability for product decisions.

Long added: “We are not just reacting to regulation; we are helping shape the future standard.”

She encouraged early engagement with the scheme, saying that those already participating are seeing operational improvements.

Reassessment of the first cohort is now underway.

Long said: “Culture change starts at the top. Don’t get left behind.”

TG1 advances coatings standards and prepares Yellow Book update

The ASFP’s Task Group 1 (TG1) has confirmed the withdrawal of outdated guidance notes 3, 4, 5 and 14, which have been superseded by more recent documents.

TG1 Convener Andrew Taylor said: “It’s vital we remove outdated documents to avoid confusion and to maintain best practice across the reactive coatings sector.”

TG1 is finalising Volume 2 of the 6th Edition Yellow Book, with a final peer review deadline of 8 August and a follow-up meeting on 18 August.

No further technical amendments will be accepted, although editorial feedback remains open.

A new advisory note will also clarify that designers must define critical temperatures used in fire resistance calculations.

TG1 is also reviewing its Best Practice Guide for installers and will return to this work in September 2025.

TG1 monitors regulatory change and expands research links

TG1 reported that the UK is preparing to shift from ‘Safety Critical’ to ‘Products Critical to Safe Construction’ as a regulatory term.

In the EU, the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) will require five-year revalidation of assessments from January 2026.

TG1 is tracking both developments and is encouraging member input to inform its guidance.

The group is also collaborating with international partners including the European Convention for Constructional Steelwork on localised fire testing scenarios.

The long-term development of a competence framework for reactive coatings specialists remains a stated aim.

TG1’s next meetings will be held on 9 July and 15 October 2025.

ASFP announces updates on UK fire protection competence, coatings and product data: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced new guidance and competence frameworks.

The ASFP is preparing updates to technical documents including the Grey Book Volume 1.

New advisory notes will address fixings, coatings and non-combustibility.

Revised training courses are being developed, with a four-tiered structure now in place.

The ASFP confirmed its attendance at Intersec Dubai 2026.

A calendar of events is planned, including the ASFP Awards Lunch in November 2025.

IT systems are being upgraded and an audit under ISO 9001 was completed with no findings.

Amanda Long of the CCPI reported 1,600 products assessed to date.

The CCPI is collaborating with specification platforms and trade media.

Government papers have cited the CCPI framework.

Procurement professionals are increasingly prioritising CCPI-assessed products.

TG1 has withdrawn four outdated advisory notes.

The Yellow Book 6th Edition Volume 2 is nearing completion.

TG1 is tracking regulatory changes in the UK and EU.

Collaboration with ECCS is ongoing on localised fire testing.

Fire doors training, regulation and competence discussed at UK ASFP TG10 meeting

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire DoorsPassive

UK fire doors task group discusses training, myths and compliance

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has reported that its Task Group 10 (TG10) met in May 2025 to discuss updates on fire doors, including training, regulation and industry collaboration.

The group’s fourth meeting addressed projects including a multi-volume Colour Book, a fire door podcast series, and upcoming guidance on nominal and notional fire doors.

According to the ASFP, attendees also examined training gaps and regulatory changes, especially those relating to the Building Safety Act and the Construction Products Reform Green Paper.

ASFP updates Colour Book and podcast plans

The ASFP stated that TG10 confirmed progress on Volume 1 of its Colour Book, which will address design, specification and planning.

The group decided to split the Colour Book into multiple volumes to better support competence frameworks. A draft of Volume 1 is expected by the end of July.

Attendees were asked to volunteer for editorial support and podcast contributions, with the TG10 podcast series seeking guest suggestions and topic input.

The association also said that a draft advisory note on nominal and notional fire doors is close to completion.

While TG10 does not endorse these terms, it noted the need to outline their risks and controls.

Shifting towards competence-led fire door safety

A central discussion, led by ASFP’s Kate Milford, addressed how the fire door sector is moving away from a compliance-based model towards a competence-focused approach.

The ASFP said this change was driven by post-Grenfell legislation including the Building Safety Act and supported by industry bodies such as the Industry Competence Committee and the Industry Competence Steering Group.

It also pointed to work by SLG12, chaired by ASFP’s David Marah, which seeks to unify fire protection knowledge across the sector.

TG10 acknowledged that installation and inspection training is well established, while areas like procurement and product selection remain underdeveloped.

Fire door training and the ASFP Competence Hub

TG10 discussed how competence is measured across fire door design, specification, procurement, installation and maintenance stages.

Members were encouraged to review internal competence records and use the ASFP Competence Hub as a resource.

The association said that feedback on training and pathways would be used to guide development of future resources.

Regulatory change and product testing discussed

The ASFP reported that TG10 reviewed proposals from the Construction Products Reform Green Paper, including the idea of digital product passports and stricter third-party certification.

The group also considered the regulatory treatment of internal versus external fire doors and the need for interpretable test data that protects proprietary information.

It was noted that oversight from the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) is increasing in the fire door and ironmongery sectors.

Next steps for TG10

TG10 will meet again in early July 2025, the ASFP said.

Members were encouraged to submit agenda items and provide feedback on projects such as the Colour Book and training initiatives.

The association is also considering a webinar series to support wider communication on these topics.

Fire doors training, regulation and competence discussed at UK ASFP TG10 meeting: Summary

The ASFP reported that TG10 met in May 2025.

TG10 reviewed progress on the Colour Book and podcast plans.

A draft advisory note on nominal and notional fire doors is being finalised.

Kate Milford led a discussion on competence-led safety approaches.

The ASFP said the Building Safety Act is influencing new frameworks.

SLG12, chaired by David Marah, is helping align sector knowledge.

TG10 highlighted training gaps in procurement and product selection.

Members were encouraged to engage with the ASFP Competence Hub.

The group discussed reforms to product testing and certification.

The Construction Products Reform Green Paper was reviewed.

TG10 noted increased OPSS attention to the fire door sector.

The next TG10 meeting is scheduled for early July 2025.

Feedback and agenda submissions were requested from members.

A webinar series is being explored by the ASFP communications team.