UK remediation delays highlight demand for less disruptive cavity fire safety solutions

by Featured NewsPassiveSafety

UK Public Accounts Committee report highlights issues in cladding remediation

A report from the UK Committee of Public Accounts has raised concerns over delays and costs in cladding remediation across the country.

According to Light Science Technologies, the Injectaclad solution provided by its subsidiary Injecta Fire Barrier could offer a cost-effective, less disruptive method for cavity remediation.

The report, published on Friday 21 March 2025, found that work has yet to begin on half of the identified buildings.

It stated that the initial estimate of £600 million for 450 buildings has increased to a projected £12.6 billion to £22.4 billion for 9,000 to 12,000 medium and high-rise buildings.

It also highlighted a shortage of skilled workers and an increase in the expected scope of work.

Injectaclad solution positioned as alternative to façade removal

Injectaclad is installed within the internal cavity of a building, removing the need to dismantle brick or rendered façades.

Light Science Technologies stated that project quotes for Injectaclad are typically three times lower than conventional façade removal methods.

It added that the system enables reduced disruption for residents and shorter project durations.

It is designed to support lower risk mitigation under PAS 9980 guidance for fire risk assessments of external wall construction.

Injecta Fire Barrier activity since acquisition

Since its acquisition in November 2023, Injecta Fire Barrier has received orders totalling £2.7 million and has completed work on 11 buildings.

It currently has a quoted pipeline of active projects valued at £16.5 million.

Light Science Technologies expects this pipeline to convert at a faster rate following the Building Safety Regulator’s commitment to clear a backlog of 122 Gateway 2 projects by the end of April 2025.

CEO comments on cladding remediation and Injectaclad’s role

Simon Deacon, Chief Executive Officer of Light Science Technologies, commented on the Public Accounts Committee’s findings and the role Injectaclad could play in improving remediation progress.

Deacon said: “This report clearly highlights the slow progress on vital remediation work in the UK.

“In addition to that, public consensus is that the 2029 target for completing works is an unacceptably long time for this work to go undone.

“A stark reminder of this danger came only last August with the Dagenham fire.

“We have a compelling solution that meets new safety standards, saves money, is far faster to implement, causes significantly less disruption, and is quick to scale.

“Wider adoption of Injectaclad ultimately means that homes and places of work will be safer; both at a faster rate and with less financial burden.”

UK remediation delays highlight demand for less disruptive cavity fire safety solutions: Summary

The UK Committee of Public Accounts published a report on 21 March 2025 addressing delays in cladding remediation.

Light Science Technologies stated that its Injectaclad product offers a cost-effective solution.

The report said half of identified buildings have not had work started.

Projected costs have risen from £600 million to between £12.6 billion and £22.4 billion.

Injectaclad is installed within wall cavities, avoiding façade removal.

The system aligns with PAS 9980 guidance.

Since November 2023, Injecta Fire Barrier has completed work on 11 buildings.

It has taken £2.7 million in orders and built a quoted project pipeline worth £16.5 million.

The Building Safety Regulator aims to clear a backlog of 122 Gateway 2 projects by April 2025.

Simon Deacon, CEO of Light Science Technologies, said the Injectaclad solution reduces disruption and cost.

Validity of EWS1 forms questioned after fire engineer sanction

by Building ManagementConstructionSafety

Fire Protection Association raises concerns over EWS1 forms

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has reported concerns over the validity of some External Wall System (EWS1) forms following disciplinary action against fire engineer Adam Kiziak.

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) suspended Kiziak for six months in August 2024 after finding breaches of its code of conduct, including failure to maintain adequate professional indemnity insurance and working outside professional competence.

In December 2024, Inside Housing reported that independent audits commissioned by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) had overturned some of Kiziak’s fire risk assessments.

On 21 January 2025, IFE confirmed that the sanction against Kiziak had been extended due to ongoing complaints, which remain under investigation.

The organisation stated that the sanction would stay in place until investigations concluded.

Mortgage lenders respond to concerns over EWS1 forms

Following Kiziak’s suspension, mortgage lender Nationwide temporarily halted lending on buildings that had been signed off by Kiziak and Tri Fire.

A spokesperson for Nationwide told Inside Housing: “We take building safety very seriously and Tri Fire’s current suspension means that we are temporarily unable to make lending decisions based on its reports without further information and validation.”

The spokesperson added that responsibility for ensuring valid reports rested with building owners.

Nationwide stated that it was working with stakeholders to address cases impacted by the suspension.

IFE acknowledged the impact of the issue on mortgage approvals and stated that it was engaging with UK Finance to assess the broader implications of its member sanctions.

UK Finance advised individuals with concerns to contact their mortgage lenders directly.

Housing associations and public bodies take action

Notting Hill Genesis issued guidance to leaseholders on 27 January 2025 regarding EWS1 forms rejected by lenders.

The housing association stated that its internal review of the peer review process used by Tri Fire found it to be insufficiently robust.

As a result, Notting Hill Genesis announced that it would cease using Tri Fire and instead commission new EWS1 forms through alternative fire engineering consultants.

It also warned leaseholders that fire engineer demand was high and waiting times could exceed the current 8 to 10 weeks.

Tri Fire suspended from government-approved panel

Homes England has suspended Tri Fire from its panel of firms approved to carry out fire risk appraisals of external walls (FRAEWs) under the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS).

As reported by Construction News, a Freedom of Information request revealed that Tri Fire had completed more than 60 FRAEWs for CSS applicants before its suspension.

A spokesperson for Homes England stated that the organisation was aware of the allegations against Tri Fire and had suspended the firm from its assessor panel.

The spokesperson added that an audit was underway to review Tri Fire reports, with additional control measures in place for assessments conducted before the suspension.

Michael Wharfe, partner at Devonshires law firm, told Construction News that ensuring the accuracy of fire risk assessments was essential before CSS applications or remedial work proceeded.

A lawyer acting for Tri Fire told BBC News that the firm was working to resolve the issues and was considering alternative peer review options.

Validity of EWS1 forms questioned after fire engineer sanction: Summary

Concerns have been raised over the validity of some EWS1 forms following the suspension of fire engineer Adam Kiziak by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).

Kiziak was sanctioned in August 2024 for breaches of professional standards, with the sanction extended in January 2025 due to further complaints.

Mortgage lender Nationwide temporarily halted lending decisions on properties assessed by Kiziak and Tri Fire.

IFE stated that it was engaging with UK Finance to address the impact of the issue on mortgage approvals.

Notting Hill Genesis announced it would no longer use Tri Fire for EWS1 assessments following an internal review.

Homes England suspended Tri Fire from its approved panel for the Cladding Safety Scheme, pending an audit of previous fire risk assessments.

A lawyer representing Tri Fire said the firm was working to resolve the situation.

Tougher targets set for removing unsafe cladding in England, industry responds

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

Government introduces the remediation acceleration plan

The UK government has announced its Remediation Acceleration Plan to tackle unsafe cladding in England.

The plan, published today, outlines measures to expedite the remediation process, hold accountable rogue freeholders, and support affected residents.

According to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, key targets include the remediation of all high-rise (18m+) buildings with unsafe cladding by the end of 2029 through government-funded schemes.

By the same date, all buildings over 11 metres with unsafe cladding will either be remediated, have a set completion date, or see their landlords face penalties for inaction.

Building Safety Minister Alex Norris said: “Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home.

“By setting a clear timeline and firm deadlines, today’s announcement is a major step towards ensuring every building is made safe.”

Developer commitments and enforcement measures

The plan is supported by a joint action plan with developers, aiming to double the rate of remediation work on buildings they are responsible for.

At least 29 developers, representing over 95% of the self-remediation workload, have committed to starting work on all their affected buildings by summer 2027.

The plan also includes increased investment in enforcement to enable local authorities, fire and rescue services, and the Building Safety Regulator to address hundreds of cases annually.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “The pace of remediation has been far too slow for far too long.

“We are taking decisive action to right this wrong and make homes safe.”

Progress since Grenfell and challenges ahead

The plan comes seven years after the Grenfell Tower fire, where 72 lives were lost.

While 95% of buildings with cladding similar to that used on Grenfell have been remediated, only 30% of all identified unsafe buildings in England have been addressed.

Thousands more buildings are expected to be added to the remediation list through a comprehensive register to identify unsafe cladding using advanced data assessments.

The plan builds on findings from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, which highlighted systemic failures in ensuring safety.

The government will provide updates on progress by March 2025, with a long-term social housing remediation strategy to follow in spring 2025.

Regulatory changes for building safety

The announcement coincides with a parliamentary debate on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s final report, which includes proposals for improving statutory guidance on building regulations.

The Building Safety Regulator will oversee a continuous review process to ensure clarity and accountability in fire safety and building design standards.

Social housing remediation will also be accelerated, with targeted support for eligible social landlords to begin work sooner.

The government aims to review 80% of the 11m+ building stock by 2025, reaching 95% by late 2025, and holding those responsible for unsafe cladding accountable.

National Fire Chiefs Council highlights workforce challenges

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has welcomed the UK government’s Remediation Acceleration Plan but cautioned that achieving the outlined targets will face significant challenges.

Responding to the announcement, NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said: “We welcome the Government’s plans to improve building safety and accelerate the removal of unsafe cladding.

“Addressing these risks is a critical step towards preventing future tragedies and ensuring the safety of people in their homes across the country.”

Hardingham emphasised the practical difficulties in delivering such a large-scale programme.

He noted a shortage of skilled professionals required to meet the ambitious targets and warned that current pressures on fire and rescue services may hinder progress.

He stated: “Without a coordinated, long-term strategy to address workforce shortages and build capacity, there is a real risk of overstretching the capacity of competent practitioners across the fire and wider construction sectors.”

The NFCC has called for sustainable funding and collaboration with all stakeholders, including local authorities, industry leaders, and training providers, to ensure a systemic response.

Fire Brigades Union calls for urgent action

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised the delays in addressing unsafe cladding, describing the prolonged crisis as unacceptable.

FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack said: “It is now more than seven years since the Grenfell Tower fire, an entirely preventable disaster which took the lives of 72 people.

“Residents and firefighters had been warning of the dangers of flammable cladding for years before it took place.”

Wrack called for accelerated action on cladding, increased investment in local government, and stronger support for the fire and rescue services.

He also urged an end to the privatisation of building control, which he described as a contributing factor to the crisis.

He added: “It is an utter disgrace that many millions of people are on course to be left living in unsafe buildings for at least 12 years after the Grenfell Tower fire.

“We urge the government to speed this process up.”

Stakeholders seek long-term strategies for building safety

Both organisations have stressed the importance of addressing systemic issues that underpin the cladding crisis.

The NFCC highlighted the need for sustainable funding to support fire and rescue services, ensuring they can fulfil statutory obligations while contributing to the remediation programme.

The FBU echoed this sentiment, calling for immediate investment in local government and public services to address the crisis effectively.

Both groups have expressed their willingness to collaborate with the government and industry to ensure the safety of affected residents and prevent future tragedies.

Tougher targets set for removing unsafe cladding in England, industry responds: Summary

The UK government has launched the Remediation Acceleration Plan to address unsafe cladding in England.

The plan sets deadlines for remediating high-rise and mid-rise buildings by 2029 and introduces penalties for non-compliance.

At least 29 developers will increase their remediation efforts, with enforcement powers given to local authorities and the Building Safety Regulator.

The plan builds on Grenfell Tower Inquiry findings, aiming to identify all unsafe buildings through a comprehensive register and advanced data tools.

Social housing remediation will also be prioritised, with a strategy due in 2025.

The NFCC and FBU have responded to the UK government’s announcement of its Remediation Acceleration Plan to remove unsafe cladding.

The NFCC welcomed the initiative but highlighted workforce shortages and capacity challenges as obstacles to achieving the proposed targets.

The FBU criticised the delays, describing the situation as unacceptable and calling for immediate action on cladding, investment in public services, and an end to the privatisation of building control.

Both organisations stressed the need for a coordinated, long-term strategy involving collaboration across all sectors to address the crisis effectively and prevent future tragedies.

UK government review outlines slow cladding remediation efforts, highlights funding and safety issues

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementConstruction

Background on the cladding remediation programme and MHCLG’s role

Following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in London in 2017, where 72 lives were lost, the UK government has committed to remediating unsafe cladding on residential buildings throughout England.

A recent report by the National Audit Office (NAO) from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), published on 4 November 2024, assesses the progress and effectiveness of this remediation programme, focusing on fire risks and the financial implications of making thousands of buildings safer.

The report finds that while remediation efforts have advanced, a substantial number of buildings remain affected, causing concern over safety and transparency.

The MHCLG, the lead department overseeing the cladding remediation, has prioritised identifying buildings with the highest risk.

Initially targeting high-rise buildings over 18 metres with aluminium composite material (ACM) cladding, the ministry has gradually expanded the scope to include buildings over 11 metres.

As of August 2024, 4,771 buildings have been included in the MHCLG’s portfolio, with only about a third of these fully remediated.

The report highlights delays in remediation and emphasises the need for transparent timelines and cost-effective solutions to address the ongoing cladding crisis in a timely manner.

Government funding, cost control, and developer accountability

The report details MHCLG’s financial strategy for the remediation portfolio, which includes a £5.1 billion funding cap to manage public spending.

To minimise taxpayer exposure, MHCLG has implemented the “polluter pays” principle, requiring developers responsible for unsafe cladding to bear remediation costs rather than passing these expenses onto leaseholders or the public.

The government aims to recover additional costs via the Building Safety Levy.

MHCLG’s approach, however, has encountered hurdles, with developers and freeholders engaging in lengthy disputes over the scope and cost of required works, resulting in project delays.

The report cautions that without clear cost recovery strategies and efficient dispute resolution mechanisms, public spending risks may escalate.

The ministry is exploring ways to enforce compliance among freeholders and developers, ensuring they assume their financial obligations promptly.

If current policies fail to expedite remediation, MHCLG plans to consider additional measures to secure building owner and developer cooperation in the future.

Expanding the scope of building safety requirements

Since 2018, MHCLG has gradually broadened the scope of its cladding remediation programme.

Initially, the ministry focused on high-rise buildings, later extending safety assessments to include medium-rise buildings as concerns grew over fire risks in other types of external cladding.

By 2020, MHCLG urged fire safety evaluations on external wall systems for buildings of any height, increasing the programme’s scope.

In 2021, the ministry introduced financial measures to support leaseholders in affected medium-rise buildings, initially offering loans.

However, in 2022, the government opted to cancel this loan programme, instead promising to shield leaseholders in buildings over 11 metres from remediation costs.

MHCLG now endorses a more proportionate approach, suggesting cost-effective fire safety measures, such as sprinkler systems, for lower-risk buildings.

This shift aims to reduce the financial burden on leaseholders while maintaining adequate safety standards.

While the government’s evolving strategy has attempted to address who bears the financial responsibility for remediation, uncertainties persist regarding how many buildings remain in scope and the final costs involved.

Fire Brigades Union calls for greater urgency and accountability

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has responded to the report, highlighting what it describes as insufficient progress on cladding remediation.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the FBU, commented on the lingering risks in thousands of buildings: “The fact that thousands of residential buildings remain wrapped in dangerous cladding is a national disgrace.

“We stated from day one that this was a failure of government due to the obsession with deregulation.”

Wrack further emphasised the importance of holding developers and construction companies accountable for the costs: “The developers and construction firms must be made to pay the costs of remediation, and the process needs to be speeded up.

“Tenants, residents, and firefighters should be part of the oversight of the work.”

Wrack’s statement underscores the union’s demand for a faster, more comprehensive approach to ensure residents’ safety and involve all stakeholders in the remediation process.

Recommendations for transparency, fraud management, and progress tracking

The report recommends that MHCLG enhance transparency regarding remediation timelines, budget allocations, and programme progress to maintain public confidence.

The ministry should publish a target date by which all affected buildings should be remediated, allowing residents to track the pace of the programme and make informed decisions about their safety.

This recommendation stems from concerns that many residents in unremediated buildings are left uncertain about when their homes will be safe.

The report also advises MHCLG to conduct a measurement exercise to detect and mitigate fraud risks within the programme.

Such an exercise would provide MHCLG with insights into potential fraud and inform strategies for addressing any discovered issues.

Sharing these findings with the Public Sector Fraud Authority and related bodies could help strengthen fraud prevention and control efforts across government programmes.

The report highlights that MHCLG’s collaboration with other departments could maximise value from remediation data and help achieve broader government objectives, including net-zero targets.

Future steps and inter-departmental cooperation for portfolio efficiency

Looking ahead, MHCLG plans to continue refining its cladding remediation strategy by working with other government bodies.

By sharing insights across departments, MHCLG aims to improve efficiencies in cladding remediation efforts while supporting wider government goals, such as environmental sustainability and housing reforms.

MHCLG’s commitment to collaboration also seeks to prevent policy conflicts and reduce redundancies, ensuring remediation efforts align with other government initiatives.

Additionally, MHCLG will continue to assess whether adjustments to its code of practice for residential building remediation could support affected residents more effectively.

The ministry may work with residents to identify additional steps that could expedite progress and reduce delays.

Should the programme’s pace not increase by the end of the year, MHCLG is considering measures such as mandatory building registration and tougher enforcement protocols for medium-rise buildings, which may further encourage building owners and developers to complete remediation work.

UK government report on cladding remediation: Summary

The National Audit Office (NAO) released a report on 4 November 2024 on the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG)’s progress, challenges, and financial implications of remediating dangerous cladding on residential buildings across England.

Following the Grenfell Tower fire, MHCLG has identified around 4,771 buildings with unsafe cladding, but only about a third have completed remediation.

The report highlights the slow pace of work, pointing to disputes between developers and freeholders as a cause of delays.

MHCLG has set a £5.1 billion budget cap, aiming to protect taxpayer money by requiring developers to cover remediation costs.

Expanding the scope of its cladding programme, MHCLG has included all buildings over 11 metres and adopted a more proportionate approach to fire safety, focusing on low-cost measures like sprinklers.

Recommendations in the report include improving transparency for residents, assessing fraud risks, and enhancing inter-departmental collaboration to align with broader government objectives.

The Fire Brigades Union expressed concern over the delays and advocated for greater accountability from developers and faster remediation.

Industry responds to government £1bn cladding investment in Autumn Budget 2024

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

Budget addresses cladding remediation after Grenfell Inquiry

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Autumn Budget 2024, delivered on 30 October, highlighted a new £1 billion allocation aimed at the remediation of homes with unsafe cladding.

This move, as per government sources, aligns with commitments to improve fire safety standards across the United Kingdom in response to findings from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

In the budget statement, Reeves stated that the government is prioritising home safety by addressing cladding concerns.

Reeves noted: “We will also make progress on our commitment to accelerate the remediation of homes following the findings of the Grenfell Inquiry… with £1bn of investment to remove dangerous cladding next year.”

Industry leaders call for comprehensive fire safety standards

While some industry stakeholders welcome the government’s focus on cladding remediation, others stress the need for broader, systemic reforms in fire safety.

Nicola John, Managing Director of Fire Door Maintenance at UAP Ltd, remarked that the government’s initiative falls short of addressing the underlying issues.

John stated: “The government’s plans to invest in cladding removal are too little too late.

“Instead of addressing the root causes of poor fire safety standards, this step only addresses the symptoms.”

John added that addressing fire safety comprehensively involves understanding the lifecycle of fire safety products to prevent knowledge gaps and advocated for top-down regulatory oversight to advance the sector.

Construction sector acknowledges cladding fund but raises concerns

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) highlighted the importance of the government’s funding for cladding remediation.

Eddie Tuttle, CIOB Director of Policy, Research and Public Affairs, noted that the recognition of dangerous cladding is a critical step, especially following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Tuttle stated: “Finally, building safety remains a critical concern for the construction industry, so we were pleased funding for dangerous cladding remediation was acknowledged as part of the budget, particularly in the wake of the second phase of the report into the tragedy at Grenfell Tower.”

Despite the allocated funds, some industry experts maintain that additional reforms and oversight are necessary to fully address the fire safety landscape.

Calls for increased training and regulatory oversight

Industry experts are urging for additional training and regulatory oversight to ensure long-term fire safety improvements.

Nicola John argued that workforce education around fire safety protocols is essential to understanding product safety across the entire construction process.

This training, she stated, would enable industry professionals to deliver consistent safety standards.

John emphasised the need for government-led regulatory reforms to secure better safety outcomes for residential and commercial properties.

Industry responds to government £1bn cladding investment in Autumn Budget 2024: Summary

The Autumn Budget 2024 announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves includes a £1 billion investment to remove unsafe cladding from buildings, a measure aimed at improving fire safety following the Grenfell Inquiry.

Reeves affirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing housing safety.

Industry leaders, however, have expressed concerns that the measure does not address the core issues surrounding fire safety standards.

Nicola John from Fire Door Maintenance highlighted the need for training across the industry on fire safety protocols to bridge knowledge gaps.

Eddie Tuttle of the CIOB welcomed the funding but noted ongoing safety concerns in construction.

Calls for increased oversight and comprehensive training have accompanied the budget announcement, with stakeholders seeking long-term solutions beyond cladding remediation.

“There needs to be an urgent and swift investigation”: Major fire in Dagenham brings attention to ongoing UK cladding crisis

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

Cladding crisis: Dagenham fire raises safety concerns

A fire engulfed an eight-story block of flats on Freshwater Road, Dagenham, leading to the evacuation of over 100 residents, as reported by multiple sources.

The fire, which broke out at 2:44 am on Monday, was brought under control by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) by 12:30 pm.

Two people were taken to the hospital, but all residents were accounted for.

LFB is investigating the cause of the fire, with a focus on flammable cladding.

The building had been undergoing remedial work to remove non-compliant cladding from its fifth and sixth floors.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) called for an immediate investigation into how such an incident could occur again.

The impact of unsafe cladding in the UK

The building involved in the Dagenham fire had been issued a fire enforcement notice in 2023 due to its unsafe cladding.

This fire is the latest incident highlighting the slow pace of the UK’s efforts to address fire safety issues in buildings with unsafe cladding.

FBU general secretary Matt Wrack expressed concern, stating: “Once again, a fire has erupted in a residential building wrapped in flammable cladding. There needs to be an urgent and swift investigation.”

He also emphasised that hundreds of thousands of people across the UK are still living in buildings with fire safety failings.

Resident accounts of the Dagenham fire

Residents caught in the Dagenham fire described harrowing scenes.

Sam Ogbeide, a resident of the fourth floor, recalled the moment he realised the fire’s intensity: “I opened my main door, smoke was coming in from the window—I live at the back. I saw it. Very terrible.”

Chris, another resident living behind the tower block, said: “I saw a bright light behind my window. We came outside and there were fire engines and ambulances. The blaze was so huge.”

Broader cladding crisis across the UK

This incident follows a similar fire at Charrington Tower in Poplar, which also had a history of cladding safety issues.

The fire in Poplar, which occurred just an hour after the Dagenham fire was controlled, has raised further alarm about fire safety in high-rise buildings.

A Ballymore Asset Management Ltd (BAML) spokesperson confirmed the building’s fire safety systems were effective but did not elaborate on the cause of the fire.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s final report, due next week, is expected to reignite discussions on fire safety standards in the UK.

Despite government efforts, only 50% of the 4,600 identified buildings with unsafe cladding have undergone remedial work, leaving thousands of residents in buildings still at risk.

Industry calls for improved safety standards and training

Nicola John, Managing Director of Fire Door Maintenance at UAP Limited, emphasised the need for swift action within the construction industry to prevent future tragedies linked to non-compliant materials.

Nicola said: “Non-compliant building materials cause destruction and devastation, and the industry needs to take action to prevent further tragedy.”

She highlighted the importance of having a “golden thread” of information about building design and materials.

“All buildings need a digitised, easily accessible ‘golden thread’ of information about their design, construction, and management,” she added.

Nicola also underscored the significance of specialised training in the fire safety industry: “At FDM by UAP Ltd, we’re the only company in the country to train fire industry workers practically and holistically about the building lifecycle, so they understand completely how fire doors are designed, engineered, installed, and inspected.

“It’s training that the industry urgently needs, and it’s training that will save lives.”

Major fire in Dagenham brings attention to ongoing UK cladding crisis: Summary

A fire at an eight-story block of flats in Dagenham, London, has renewed concerns about fire safety in buildings with unsafe cladding.

The fire broke out early on Monday morning, resulting in the evacuation of over 100 residents.

Two people were hospitalised.

London Fire Brigade is investigating the incident, with a focus on the role of flammable cladding.

The building had been undergoing remedial work to replace non-compliant cladding.

The Fire Brigades Union has called for urgent action to address the ongoing cladding crisis across the UK, where hundreds of thousands of residents remain at risk.

Aberdeen’s Aurora Apartments first in Scotland to finish cladding removal project

by ConstructionFeatured News

First high-rise in Scotland finishes cladding remediation

The Aurora Apartments in Aberdeen have become the first high-rise building in Scotland to have hazardous cladding removed and replaced under a government pilot scheme initiated after the Grenfell tragedy.

This milestone, reported by The Fire Industry Association, ensures enhanced fire safety for residents across the country.

The nine-storey building underwent extensive construction to comply with stringent fire regulations established following the Grenfell Tower fire in London.

The project included the removal and replacement of combustible wall cladding and insulation materials with non-combustible alternatives.

Project details and management

The Scottish Government identified the Aurora Apartments as one of several ‘high priority’ buildings for cladding remediation under the Single Building Assessment (SBA) programme.

The project, costing £600,000, was funded by the government and managed by Diamond & Company (Scotland) Ltd Chartered Building Surveyors and Chartered Fire Engineers.

Phil Diamond, Managing Director of Diamond & Company, stated: “The Grenfell fire exposed a systemic failure in all aspects of cladding installation in buildings throughout the UK.

“The completion of the work on the Aurora apartments in Aberdeen now provides an industry blueprint on how to make similar high-rise buildings much less vulnerable in the event of a fire.”

Importance of the project

Housing Minister Paul McLennan highlighted the importance of this project, stating: “This is a very important moment for owners and residents and I was pleased to visit Aurora Apartments earlier this month to meet with those involved.

“The Scottish Government has provided £600,000 funding for the complex and innovative work at this building.”

The legislation banning combustible cladding on new high-rise residential buildings and high-risk buildings above 11 meters was enacted by the Scottish Parliament in April 2022.

This regulation also applies to recladding works on existing buildings, such as the Aurora Apartments.

Construction challenges

The remedial work at Aurora Apartments was conducted by a company in Arbroath.

Jacqueline Hacking, Managing Director, remarked: “This was an extremely complex job which involved not only the removal of the outside wall cladding but the replacement of internal materials.

“We had to strip the building right back to ensure all internal combustible materials were removed.

“This also included the replacement of the timber decking on balconies with fire-rated aluminium decking.

“However, thanks to the tremendous cooperation and support of the residents the project was successfully completed.”

Paula Roberts, Aberdeen branch manager of Trinity Factors, expressed relief and gratitude for the inclusion of the building in the government’s pilot programme: “Residents were understandably concerned when the survey work revealed the extent of the combustible materials on the outside and inside of the building.

“We also had the added complication that the developer of the building ceased trading several years ago, so it was a relief when the Aurora Apartments were included in the Scottish Government’s pilot programme.”

Future implications

This successful project at the Aurora Apartments sets a precedent for future cladding remediation works across Scotland and the UK, providing a safer living environment for residents in high-rise buildings.

Linear heat detection solution enhances fire safety in cladding remediation

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

The need for enhanced fire safety in cladding remediation projects

As reported by Ramtech, the need for enhanced fire safety measures during cladding remediation projects has become critical following the Grenfell Tower incident.

Ramtech has introduced a Linear Heat Detection Solution specifically designed for scaffolding structures.

Developed in partnership with Thermocable, this system provides early detection of potential fire hazards during facade replacement.

Government data shows that approximately 12,500 residential buildings over 18 meters and an additional 78,000 buildings between 11 and 18 meters require assessment for cladding remediation.

The urgency for robust fire safety measures in these projects has never been greater, given the added fire risks from major scaffolding structures.

Traditional fire detection methods often prove inadequate for open-air scaffolding environments, leaving construction sites vulnerable to potential fire outbreaks.

Recent events have underscored this need.

In Sydney, Australia, scaffolding caught fire after cladding was removed from an office block.

The fire quickly spread, igniting plastic sheeting on the scaffolding.

Workers had to scramble up the scaffold to avoid the flames.

The fire was contained before reaching the building’s internal structure, but it highlighted the fire risks associated with cladding removal.

Innovative solution for scaffolding fire detection

Ramtech’s Linear Heat Detection System addresses these risks by ensuring the safety of both workers and residents during facade replacement projects.

The system leverages Thermocable’s linear heat detection technology combined with Ramtech’s WES3 and REACT technology.

Harry Buck, commercial manager at Thermocable, said: “In open-air environments, typical fire detectors can be prone to false activations.

“Linear heat cable is designed for these challenging conditions while still providing early detection at the point of risk.”

The system provides comprehensive fire detection coverage, significantly reducing the risk of fire hazards.

It is cost-effective, quick, and simple to install, minimising project overheads and ensuring low maintenance.

The system easily interfaces with building fire alarm systems or off-site monitoring stations, enhancing overall safety protocols.

The REACT Cloud-based platform allows for real-time alerts in the event of an alarm activation, facilitating swift intervention and preventing false alarms.

Key features and benefits of the detection system

The Linear Heat Detection System utilises fixed activation (digital) linear heat cable strategically deployed along the underside of scaffolding at every level, ensuring thorough coverage and reliable fire detection.

Each heat detection device can monitor extensive lengths of cable, accommodating buildings of varying sizes.

In the event of alarm activation, real-time alerts via REACT are delivered to relevant personnel with a graphical map pinpointing the exact location, ensuring a rapid and precise response.

Ramtech’s innovation has been recognised by the industry.

The Linear Heat Detection Solution has been shortlisted for the prestigious Digital Construction Awards and the Construction News Awards.

These accolades highlight the system’s design, effectiveness, and industry-leading capabilities, reinforcing Ramtech’s position in construction safety technology.

Iain Grant, Head of Product at Ramtech, expressed pride in the system: “Being shortlisted for the Digital Construction Awards and the Construction News Awards is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team.

“Our partnership with Thermocable has enabled us to deliver a solution that not only meets but exceeds industry standards for fire safety on scaffolding structures.”

Success stories and industry impact

Ramtech’s Linear Heat Detection Solution has been successfully implemented in various cladding remediation projects.

For example, Ramtech worked with Veritas on a six-story building, providing contractors with a scalable and adaptable system to mitigate the risk of scaffolding fires.

The system was installed on the underside of scaffolding boards at every level, offering early warning of any fire outbreaks.

The ease of installation and integration with the building’s main fire alarm system, using Ramtech’s WES3 wireless interface unit, provided comprehensive 24/7 automated response through the REACT emergency notification system.

This approach eliminated the need for costly ‘waking watch’ patrols and ensured safety, even out of hours.

The project remained safe, allowing for uninterrupted work without delays caused by fire risks.

Homes England launches online ‘Building Remediation Hub’ to streamline cladding replacement funding applications

by Featured NewsPassiveSafety

Introduction of the Building Remediation Hub

On 8 April 2024, Homes England introduced the ‘Building Remediation Hub’, an online platform designed to facilitate the application process for government funding aimed at the replacement of unsafe cladding on medium- and high-rise buildings taller than 11 metres.

This initiative is set to simplify the submission process for those responsible for building safety, ensuring the collection of consistent data across buildings of varying heights.

The existing Building Safety Fund application form on Citizen Space will be discontinued, with any unsubmitted applications and information being lost as the new Hub takes over.

Application and eligibility details

The Building Remediation Hub not only streamlines the application process but also mandates that from 8 April, all new applications must include a Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW), conducted by a member of Homes England’s panel.

Although the use of a panel member for FRAEW is advised by Homes England, it is not compulsory.

Eligibility for the government funding extends to those who have taken reasonable steps to recover cladding replacement costs through insurance, warranties, or legal action.

Eligible buildings must exceed 11 metres in height and house at least one qualifying residential leaseholder, excluding social sector landlords who are applying due to financial viability concerns.

Who can apply?

Applications can be made by responsible entities, authorised representatives of such entities, or registered social housing providers, provided they meet the funding eligibility criteria.

The emphasis is on addressing the life safety fire risks associated with cladding, ensuring that buildings over 11 metres tall with unsafe cladding can access necessary funds for remediation work.

IFSJ Comment

By streamlining the application process for funding, the initiative aims to simplify compliance and ensure a more efficient collection and analysis of data relevant to building safety.

This approach demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the safety and integrity of residential buildings, which is essential for the well-being of residents and the overall resilience of the urban landscape.

The clear criteria for application and the focus on collaboration with Homes England’s panel for FRAEW assessments highlight the importance of thorough and standardised safety evaluations.

Barnet Council leads UK in massive cladding replacement initiative for housing safety

by Featured NewsSafety

Introduction to the project

Barnet Council has launched an ambitious plan to replace cladding on almost 600 houses within its jurisdiction, marking a significant step towards enhancing building safety standards.

This initiative, worth millions, is hailed as the first of its kind in the UK, aiming to address safety concerns highlighted by a serious house fire in the summer of 2023.

The fire revealed the rapid spread due to the UPVC cladding installed, prompting a thorough investigation by the council.

Investigation findings and actions taken

The investigation unearthed that the cladding, along with timber frame construction and fire stop issues, failed to meet the rigorous post-Grenfell building standards.

As a result, Barnet Council has reached out to all impacted homeowners with detailed plans for the cladding replacement.

This includes a £3.6 million scheme targeting 153 council-owned homes and offers a financial assistance package to 426 freeholders and seven leaseholders to facilitate the cladding replacement process.

National collaboration and financial support

Deputy Council Leader Cllr Ross Houston expressed concerns over the wider implications of this cladding issue, fearing similar risks across the UK.

The council is now engaging with other local authorities and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to devise a national strategy to assist homeowners grappling with the financial burden of replacing outdated cladding.

Houston stated: “The council will cover the cost for replacing cladding on its social housing stock but homeowners will unfortunately need to fund remediation for their own properties.”

Implications for the UK housing safety standards

The affected properties, constructed between the 1930s and 1960s, are primarily timber-framed terraced houses.

This incident has not only sparked a local response but also initiated a broader dialogue on national building safety standards.

The council’s proactive stance and collaborative effort with various stakeholders underscore the urgent need for a cohesive national approach to tackle the cladding crisis.

IFSJ Comment

The initiative by Barnet Council to replace hazardous cladding on nearly 600 houses is a commendable step towards ensuring the safety of its residents.

This project addresses the immediate risks associated with substandard cladding, setting a precedent for local and national authorities to reevaluate and enhance building safety regulations.

By sharing its findings and strategies with other councils and seeking to collaborate with higher government bodies, Barnet Council is spearheading efforts to mitigate a potentially widespread issue across the UK.

This approach highlights the importance of proactive measures and the need for comprehensive strategies to safeguard communities against similar safety hazards.