Advanced welcomes Fire Safety Specialist Shadi Elhag to the Middle East team

by Featured NewsPeople

Shadi Elhag has joined the Advanced team as Business Development Manager for the Middle East. Shadi’s appointment marks Advanced’s commitment to fostering strong customer relationships and driving growth in this critical region.

Shadi Elhag’s background

Shadi brings a wealth of experience in fire safety and compliance, having previously held key roles in the industry. Most recently, he worked at UL Solutions, where he supported the adoption of UL safety standards across the Middle East.

Shadi also has an extensive background in technical sales and fire suppression systems, with a proven track record of fostering strong customer relationships and delivering results.

Based in Riyadh, Shadi will focus on building and nurturing relationships with end users, consultants, and system integrators.

His role will be pivotal in promoting Advanced’s fire detection and alarm solutions, including Axis AX and Axis EN, which are designed to meet the diverse needs of the Middle East market.

Business Development Manager for Advanced’s Middle East Team, Shadi Elhag’s statement

Shadi said: “I am thrilled to join Advanced, a company known for its exceptional product quality and innovative approach. My goal is to ensure we continue to deliver reliable fire safety solutions that enhance both protection and compliance for our customers.

“I’m looking forward to working with a talented team and contributing to Advanced’s mission of creating a safer future.”

Advanced’s General Manager for Fire Systems in the Middle East, Sasi Kumar’s statement

Sasi Kumar, Advanced’s General Manager for Fire Systems in the Middle East, welcomed the new addition, stating: “We are delighted to have Shadi on board. His extensive knowledge of fire safety systems and dedication to understanding customer needs will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence in the Middle East.”

Shadi Elhag announced as Advanced’s Business Development Manager for the Middle East Team: Summary

Shadi Elhag is joining the Advanced team as Business Development Manager for the Middle East. With a focus on building relationships and a wealth of experience in fire safety and compliance, Shadi will offer his expertise to Advanced’s mission of creating a safer future.

Nigeria’s NEMA launches harmattan fire awareness campaign

by Featured NewsSafety

NEMA initiates harmattan fire awareness efforts

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) of Nigeria, led by Director General Mrs Zubaida Umar, has started a nationwide fire prevention campaign aimed at reducing fire incidents during the harmattan season.

As reported by NEMA, the campaign is implemented through its Zonal Territorial and Operations Offices, working in collaboration with the Federal and State Fire Services.

The initiative includes training Emergency Management Volunteers (EMVs) at the grassroots level, equipping them with fire prevention and emergency response skills to address the increased fire risks associated with the dry harmattan conditions.

Focus on tanker fire prevention measures

A key aspect of the campaign is addressing the rising number of tanker fires.

NEMA is engaging tanker drivers and associated stakeholders with sensitisation programs focused on fire safety.

According to NEMA, these efforts include training on preventive practices and emergency response techniques.

This segment of the campaign also extends to other stakeholders such as market associations and local businesses, encouraging broader adoption of fire prevention measures.

Director General highlights proactive measures

Director General Mrs Zubaida Umar emphasised the importance of proactive fire risk management during the harmattan season.

She stated: “The campaign aims to promote a culture of disaster prevention to protect lives, property, and livelihoods.”

She further highlighted the need for collective responsibility in following disaster warnings, preparedness measures, and emergency response mechanisms.

Collaborative approach to fire safety

The campaign underscores NEMA’s commitment to fostering resilient communities through collaborative efforts with tanker drivers, grassroots volunteers, and market leaders.

Mrs Umar stated: “This nationwide sensitization effort reflects NEMA’s dedication to empowering communities and working with critical stakeholders to mitigate fire risks.”

The agency’s approach combines prevention, training, and coordinated action to address fire hazards effectively.

Nigeria’s NEMA launches harmattan fire awareness campaign: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched a harmattan fire awareness campaign targeting communities across Nigeria.

Collaborating with Federal and State Fire Services, NEMA focuses on training Emergency Management Volunteers and sensitizing tanker drivers and businesses to fire safety.

The initiative, led by Director General Mrs Zubaida Umar, addresses the increased fire risks during harmattan through prevention strategies and stakeholder engagement.

Mrs Umar highlighted the need for proactive measures and collective responsibility to protect lives, property, and livelihoods.

The campaign reflects NEMA’s commitment to fostering disaster-resilient communities.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launches safety campaign amid rise in rechargeable battery fires

by Featured NewsSafety

Rechargeable battery fire incidents increase in Scotland

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported a rise in fires caused by devices with rechargeable batteries, with 26 incidents recorded in Scotland last year compared to just three in 2018.

Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in mobile phones, laptops, e-scooters, and e-bikes, can ignite if damaged, faulty, or improperly used.

These fires may also result in explosions and the release of toxic fumes.

To address this growing issue, the SFRS has launched a safety campaign.

Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson said: “Most homes have electrical products powered by lithium-ion batteries… these items should be used safely and treated with respect as, when damaged or faulty, the batteries can cause significant fires which could have devastating results for you, your family and your home.”

Safety tips issued to reduce fire risk

The campaign emphasises several key safety measures.

These include buying devices from reputable retailers, using approved chargers, and unplugging devices after charging.

Firefighters also recommend keeping exit routes clear and avoiding the charging or storage of batteries in hallways or bedrooms.

They warn against charging devices while asleep and highlight the importance of identifying and recycling damaged or old batteries.

Watch Commander Kevin Ketchen, who attended an e-scooter battery fire in West Lothian, said: “When we arrived at the scene, the battery had exploded and was producing extreme heat and a thick flammable gas.

“We would ask people to ensure they have smoke detectors in place at home and never charge these items in escape routes like hallways or in bedrooms.”

Minister calls for caution with household batteries

Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown expressed concern over the increase in home fires linked to rechargeable batteries.

She encouraged public awareness of the risks associated with their use and disposal.

Brown stated: “The rise in accidental fires in the home linked to electronic devices with rechargeable batteries is concerning…

“I urge everyone to be aware of the risks and if you ever see smoke or flames coming from a battery or device, never tackle it yourself: get out, stay out and call 999.”

Safe disposal of batteries stressed by recycling experts

Improper disposal of rechargeable batteries is another concern.

Batteries discarded in general waste can become damaged in bin lorries or waste sites, increasing the risk of fires.

Paul Doherty, Recycling Manager at Zero Waste Scotland, said: “Batteries and vapes should never be disposed of in general waste to avoid the risk of fire and contamination if they leak.

“Instead, batteries and single-use vapes should be deposited for recycling either at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre, or at in-store recycling receptacles found in any shop that sells these items regularly.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launches safety campaign amid rise in rechargeable battery fires: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has launched a campaign to address the rising number of fires caused by rechargeable batteries, which increased from three in 2018 to 26 in 2023.

Safety advice includes buying devices from reputable retailers, using approved chargers, unplugging after charging, and keeping escape routes clear.

Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown urged the public to remain cautious and follow the guidance.

Improper disposal of batteries also poses fire risks, with recycling experts emphasising responsible disposal at designated facilities.

Façade fire safety: European Commission validates harmonised testing standards

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassive

Harmonised testing for façade fire performance

The European Commission has validated the final report on a harmonised European testing methodology for façade fire safety.

This decision marks progress toward standardising testing and classification processes for façades across EU member states.

The finalised methodology addresses varying national standards and incorporates detailed technical guidelines to assess façade systems comprehensively.

Key aspects include fire spread, falling parts, and exposure criteria, based on tests performed under diverse conditions.

Key findings of the research project

The research project analysed current façade testing methods, using input from 29 laboratories across 20 countries.

Participants completed extensive questionnaires, identifying discrepancies and areas for improvement.

Issues included unclear guidelines for mounting test specimens and differences in fire spread evaluation.

Recommendations were made to refine performance criteria and standardise test configurations, such as combustion chamber design and specimen setup.

These changes aim to enhance repeatability and ensure tests align with real-world conditions.

Experimental Round Robin results

The project concluded with an experimental Round Robin, testing four façade systems at three laboratories.

A total of 24 tests were conducted, examining large- and medium-scale exposures.

Variations in ambient conditions and wind effects were considered, highlighting the need for consistent testing environments.

Tests also explored alternative fuel sources, like propane burners, which proved effective in mimicking wood crib exposures while offering cost and safety benefits.

Further adjustments to test configurations were incorporated into the updated assessment method.

Next steps for European façade fire standards

The European Commission plans to issue mandates for drafting formal standards through CEN/TC 127/WG 6.

These standards will harmonise façade fire testing and classification, supporting safer building practices.

To ensure widespread adoption, the Commission emphasised collaboration among stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, industry representatives, and laboratories.

Additional research may further refine the methodology and address emerging fire safety challenges.

Façade fire safety: European Commission validates harmonised testing standards: Summary

The European Commission has validated a harmonised testing methodology for façade fire safety.

The methodology integrates input from 29 laboratories across 20 countries and incorporates findings from experimental testing of façade systems.

Recommendations include refining performance criteria, standardising test setups, and considering alternative fuel sources.

The Commission plans to draft formal standards through CEN mandates to support consistent and effective fire safety measures across Europe.

Thousands of prison cells to close over fire safety issues across England and Wales

by Featured NewsSafety

Fire safety risks prompt closure of prison cells

Thousands of prison cells in England and Wales are expected to be taken out of use due to fire safety concerns, according to reports by Sky News.

The closures follow identified safety issues at several prisons, including HMP Durham, Risley, and Swaleside, where fire risks require urgent remedial work.

Temporary fire safety measures are being implemented in some prisons, such as the use of domestic smoke detectors and additional fire watch staff.

A Prison Service spokesperson said: “We have a rolling programme of maintenance works across the prison estate, to ensure cells are safe and secure.

“The safety of staff and prisoners is our top priority and we will always take steps to ensure the risk of fire is managed appropriately.”

Closures highlight wider infrastructure challenges

The closure of HMP Dartmoor in the summer due to radon gas further illustrates the broader challenges in maintaining ageing prison infrastructure.

The government has already introduced an early release scheme, allowing some prisoners to leave custody after serving 40% of their sentence, down from 50%. This is aimed at mitigating capacity pressures while repairs and refurbishments take place.

£2.3bn investment for new spaces underway

The government has pledged £2.3bn to create 14,000 new prison spaces by 2031 as part of its Prison Capacity Strategy.

This includes 6,400 spaces across new prisons in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Leicestershire, alongside 6,400 spaces in new wings at existing prisons.

In addition, 1,000 rapid deployment temporary cells and another 1,000 refurbished spaces are planned.

Warnings over capacity shortfall

Despite these plans, the National Audit Office (NAO) has warned that the current expansion will not meet future demand.

The NAO estimates a shortfall of over 12,000 prison spaces by 2027.

The Ministry of Justice forecasts the prison population could reach 105,000 by March 2029.

Andrea Coomber of the Howard League for Penal Reform criticised the focus on new spaces, saying: “We cannot build our way out of this crisis.

“The billions of pounds earmarked for opening new jails would be better invested in securing an effective and responsive probation service, working to cut crime in the community.”

Fire safety concerns force closure of thousands of prison cells in England and Wales: Summary

Thousands of prison cells across England and Wales are being closed due to fire safety risks, with prisons like HMP Durham, Risley, and Swaleside undergoing urgent repairs.

Temporary measures, including domestic smoke detectors and additional fire watch staff, are being implemented in affected facilities.

The closures add pressure to the prison system, prompting the government to expand its early release scheme.

As part of its £2.3bn strategy, the government plans to create 14,000 new prison spaces by 2031.

However, the National Audit Office warns that this expansion will be insufficient to meet growing demand, with an estimated shortfall of 12,000 spaces by 2027.

Critics argue that investment should focus on community probation services to reduce crime and alleviate pressure on prisons.

EV transportation: ClassNK publishes guidance and first notation for safe vehicle carrier evacuation

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSafety

Risks of evacuation on vehicle carriers during fires

ClassNK has issued new guidance to assist in the safe evacuation of crew members from vehicle carriers during cargo hold fires.

The organisation has also introduced the world’s first notation, AMEVC(EV)*1, for vessels equipped with additional evacuation measures.

According to ClassNK, vehicle carriers typically have life-saving equipment and accommodation areas located above the cargo holds.

Ventilation ducts for the holds are often near these spaces. This design can result in smoke and flames affecting critical evacuation routes, complicating crew safety during fires.

Collaboration to identify risks and solutions

ClassNK collaborated with shipping companies and shipyards to assess evacuation challenges.

The findings are detailed in the publication Risk Assessment related to the Safe Escape from a Car Carrier.

The document highlights various risks, such as thermal effects, and proposes countermeasures.

These include spraying water on decks, installing thermal insulation under lifeboats, and placing evacuation equipment on forward mooring decks.

ClassNK has also outlined requirements for vessel-specific evacuation measures to meet the new notation standards.

Comprehensive guidelines for EV transportation

ClassNK has updated its Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles (Edition 2.0).

The first edition focused on electric vehicle (EV) fire characteristics and measures to detect and prevent fire spread.

The latest version introduces additional insights into safe evacuation, expanding the document’s scope.

These updates aim to enhance vessel safety standards during EV transportation.

Establishing standards for maritime safety

ClassNK stated that these efforts contribute to improving the safe maritime transport of electric vehicles.

The organisation’s guidelines provide detailed standards and certification criteria to support vessel operators and crews.

Both publications, Risk Assessment related to the Safe Escape from a Car Carrier and Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles (Edition 2.0), are available on the ClassNK website.

ClassNK publishes guidance and first notation for safe vehicle carrier evacuation: summary

ClassNK has released guidance addressing evacuation safety on vehicle carriers during cargo hold fires, citing the challenges posed by vessel layouts.

A new notation, AMEVC(EV)*1, has been introduced for ships implementing additional evacuation measures.

In collaboration with industry stakeholders, ClassNK identified risks such as thermal effects and proposed solutions including water spraying systems and thermal insulation under lifeboats.

ClassNK also updated its guidelines for transporting electric vehicles, incorporating insights on evacuation safety alongside fire response measures.

The publications aim to establish clear standards to improve maritime transport safety for EVs and vehicle carriers.

Both documents are accessible on the ClassNK website.

Building safety revisions welcomed but leave gaps in fire protection

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire SuppressionSafety

Updates to fire safety regulations for care homes announced in England and Northern Ireland

The Business Sprinkler Alliance (BSA) has welcomed updates to fire safety regulations in England and Northern Ireland regarding sprinkler systems in new care homes.

However, the organisation warns that these changes fall short of fully protecting vulnerable individuals in other types of accommodation, including existing care homes and assisted living facilities.

The revisions to England’s Building Regulations Approved Document B and Northern Ireland’s Technical Booklet E mandate sprinkler systems in new care homes.

Former Building Safety Minister Rushanara Ali MP stated: “A compassionate society protects its most vulnerable.”

The BSA agrees with this sentiment but highlights that vulnerable individuals living in existing care homes or specialised housing remain unprotected under these changes.

Calls to address gaps in fire safety for vulnerable individuals

The BSA points to incidents such as the 2019 fire at Beechmere Retirement Village in Crewe, which destroyed a timber-framed, unsprinklered building housing elderly residents.

Secretary of the BSA Tom Roche said: “Beechmere was an extra care living accommodation, not technically a care home, yet it housed elderly individuals, many of whom required assistance.

“The unsprinklered, timber-framed building was completely destroyed by fire, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive fire safety measures in all types of accommodation for vulnerable people.”

The BSA advocates expanding regulations to include all housing types for vulnerable individuals.

The organisation argues that current inconsistencies leave people with similar risk characteristics to those in care homes with unequal fire safety measures.

Retrofitting measures versus proactive implementation

The BSA has observed a trend of retrofitting sprinkler systems after serious incidents such as the Beechmere fire.

Tom Roche stated: “We’ve observed that following serious incidents like the Beechmere fire, operators often take retroactive measures, such as retrofitting sprinklers in similar extra care facilities.

“However, we believe it’s crucial to implement these life-saving systems proactively, rather than reactively.”

Proactive sprinkler installation is seen as critical for providing additional evacuation time for individuals with mobility issues and offering peace of mind to residents, staff, and families.

Expanding sprinkler use across the built environment

The BSA emphasises the broader benefits of sprinkler systems, which not only control fires but also reduce damage and fire spread.

It continues to advocate for sprinkler systems to be considered in a wide range of buildings, including hospitals, schools, retail centres, and industrial facilities.

The organisation urges policymakers to address regulatory gaps to ensure consistent fire safety measures for all vulnerable individuals, regardless of the type of accommodation they reside in.

Updates to fire safety regulations for care homes announced in England and Northern Ireland: Summary

The Business Sprinkler Alliance (BSA) has welcomed updates to fire safety regulations mandating sprinkler systems in new care homes in England and Northern Ireland.

While these changes improve fire safety, the BSA highlights gaps in protection for individuals in existing care homes and specialised housing, such as assisted living facilities and retirement villages.

Citing incidents like the 2019 Beechmere Retirement Village fire, the BSA calls for proactive implementation of sprinklers across all housing for vulnerable people.

The organisation advocates expanding regulations to ensure consistent fire safety standards and greater use of sprinklers in various types of buildings.

Fire safety concerns in Cypriot apartment blocks highlighted by fire service

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Fire safety hazards in apartment buildings highlighted in House committee discussion

Cyprus’ fire service has issued warnings about blocked stairwells and poor parking practices in apartment blocks, stating these pose serious risks to residents’ safety.

This statement was made during a House interior committee meeting where MPs reviewed a bill aimed at regulating jointly owned buildings.

Aristos Damianou, chairman of the committee, described current conditions in such buildings as chaotic and marked by disputes between tenants and owners.

He noted that thousands of buildings across Cyprus are unmaintained.

Fire service spokesman Andreas Kettis emphasised the dangers of cluttered common areas and locked emergency doors, highlighting the potential for fatalities in emergencies.

He said: “In the event a stairwell is filled with smoke, it simply means that everyone is trapped and we will lose people.”

Fire safety oversight criticised

Kettis pointed out that current building regulations lack provisions for regular fire safety inspections.

He said: “After the final approval for any building, it is not checked at all for fire safety issues.”

He described stairwells filled with furniture, bags of charcoal, and dirt, stressing that blocked escape routes heighten the danger to tenants during emergencies.

Kettis called for regular inspections and mandatory safety certifications to be implemented and maintained by building owners.

Damianou pledged that the committee would expedite the proposed bill, which includes measures to empower building management committees and ensure compliance with safety standards.

New bill aims to address maintenance and compliance gaps

The proposed legislation seeks to establish a framework for better management and maintenance of jointly owned buildings.

Damianou noted that one key feature is granting management committees the authority to impose reasonable maintenance fees, addressing a common issue where some residents refuse to contribute financially.

The bill also introduces provisions for the compulsory registration and supervision of co-owned buildings.

This includes the mandatory insurance of these properties and oversight of administrative committees responsible for their upkeep.

Challenges in implementation

While Damianou acknowledged the importance of the proposed changes, he noted that a lack of financial resources and disinterest among some tenants could hinder the bill’s effectiveness.

He highlighted the absence of management committees in many cases and said: “The financial aspect will be a thorn in the side, creating and perpetuating friction.”

The bill also aims to define the rights and obligations of property owners, addressing gaps in the current legislation.

The goal is to ensure better compliance and safer living conditions for residents while reducing risks to public safety.

Fire safety concerns in Cypriot apartment blocks highlighted by fire service: Summary

The Cypriot fire service has raised alarms over safety risks in apartment blocks, citing blocked stairwells, poor parking, and locked emergency exits as major concerns.

During a House committee session, fire service spokesman Andreas Kettis criticised the lack of regular fire safety inspections and urged for mandatory safety checks.

A new bill aims to improve building management through enhanced regulatory measures, including compulsory insurance, maintenance oversight, and the establishment of administrative committees.

Committee chairman Aristos Damianou noted that the bill seeks to address safety gaps and resolve disputes between tenants and owners.

Despite its goals, challenges remain in implementation, particularly regarding financial contributions and tenant compliance.

Damianou committed to pushing the bill forward swiftly to address these pressing safety issues.

Geology and fire safety laws approved in Vietnam

by Featured NewsSafety

Vietnam enacts new geology and fire safety legislation

Vietnam’s National Assembly has approved the Geology and Mineral Law with 446 out of 448 deputies voting in favour, representing 93.11 per cent of members.

As reported by Vietnam News, the legislation comprises 12 chapters and 111 articles, addressing geological investigations, mineral resource protection, mining operations, resource recovery, and mineral extraction rights auctions.

State management responsibilities are outlined for Vietnam’s mainland, islands, internal waters, territorial seas, exclusive economic zones, and continental shelves.

The law excludes petroleum resources, natural water aside from mineral or hot spring water, and unrelated mineral processing activities.

Amendments were proposed during discussions, including updates to mineral planning categories.

Article 12 introduces classifications as ‘Group I’ and ‘Group II Mineral Planning’ for legal clarity.

Mining permits under Article 56 now have a maximum validity of 30 years, extendable by 20 years.

Permits for projects with viable reserves may be reissued to ensure efficient resource use.

Fire prevention law targets urban safety

The National Assembly also passed the Fire Prevention, Fighting and Rescue Law with 448 out of 450 deputies voting in favour, representing 93.53 per cent of members.

The legislation comprises eight chapters and 55 articles, defining state agency, organisational, household, and individual responsibilities.

Administrative procedures for fire safety have been streamlined, reducing processes from 37 to 10, lowering compliance costs.

Urban housing requirements mandate fire safety equipment such as alarms and extinguishers in densely populated areas with inadequate infrastructure.

Initial enforcement will focus on Hà Nội, HCM City, Đà Nẵng, Cần Thơ, and Hải Phòng.

Other regions are encouraged to adopt these measures voluntarily.

Stricter regulations for repurposed buildings

The fire safety law includes provisions for residential buildings repurposed for businesses such as karaoke bars, nightclubs, and dance halls.

As outlined in Article 23, these conversions must adhere to construction and fire safety standards.

Article 14 prohibits unauthorised modifications that compromise fire safety.

The legislation also requires Vietnamese citizens aged 18 and above, in good health, to participate in local firefighting and rescue teams when needed.

Enhanced safety measures introduced in Vietnam

Vietnam’s new legislation aims to improve geological resource management and fire safety standards.

The Geology and Mineral Law sets updated guidelines for mining permits, resource recovery, and state responsibilities.

Meanwhile, the Fire Prevention, Fighting and Rescue Law introduces urban fire safety requirements, stricter rules for repurposed buildings, and reduced administrative processes, focusing on densely populated cities while encouraging broader adoption across the country.

UK fire safety standard BS 9991:2024 revised for residential building guidance

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured News

Updated fire safety guidance for UK residential buildings

The British Standards Institution (BSI) has released the revised BS 9991:2024 Fire safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings – Code of practice.

Published on 27 November 2024, the updated standard replaces the previous 2015 edition.

BS 9991:2024 includes new recommendations and updates aimed at enhancing fire safety in residential properties across the UK.

Focus on Grenfell and stakeholder input

The revisions commenced prior to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry final report in September 2024.

While the report did not directly recommend changes to BS 9991, it highlighted the need for comprehensive fire safety measures.

The public consultation process generated over 1,800 comments, reviewed by the FSH/14 technical committee responsible for the standard.

Expanded scope and updated measures

Key updates in BS 9991:2024 include extending the scope to cover residential care homes, revised guidance on evacuation lifts, and new height limits for sprinkler installations and single-stair buildings.

These changes aim to provide consistent fire safety measures while addressing diverse UK regulations, including England’s Approved Document B, Scotland’s Technical Handbook 2, and Northern Ireland’s Technical Booklet E.

Expert input and industry focus

BSI Director-General, Standards, Scott Steedman, commented:

“The Grenfell tragedy has brought the issue of building safety into focus.

“It is critical that all standards reflect the latest evidence.”

He noted that the updated standard is designed to ensure effective escape routes and robust fire safety systems in residential buildings.

BS 9991:2024 revised for fire safety: summary

The BSI has published the updated BS 9991:2024 standard for residential building fire safety.

The revised guidance includes expanded scope and updated safety measures.

It reflects input from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and extensive consultation with stakeholders.