UK public sector embraces new £150m fire safety framework

by Breaking NewsSafety

Fire safety experts join £150m UK public sector framework

More than 70 fire safety specialists have been selected for a new £150 million UK-wide public sector fire safety framework, aimed at enhancing safety standards across various organisations.

The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework, orchestrated by LHC Procurement Group, will involve 72 companies to provide comprehensive fire protection and safety services for housing associations, local authorities, and other public sector bodies.

The framework’s introduction is timely, aligning with the need for organisations to comply with the Building Safety Act 2022 and Associated Legislation 2023.

These regulations, reinforced by the Building Safety Regulator which became operational on 1 October 2023, set new standards for building safety and fire prevention, particularly in higher-risk buildings.

Enhanced fire safety services under new framework

Building upon its predecessor, the FS1 framework, the FS2 framework expands its services to include both passive and active fire prevention measures.

This includes enhanced capabilities for fire detection, alert systems, and suppression technologies to meet the stringent requirements set by the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and the Fire Safety Act 2021.

Clive Feeney, group managing director of LHC, highlighted the evolution of building and fire safety protocols over recent years: “The pace and scale of change around building and fire safety in the last two years has been unmatched for decades.

“FS2 arrives at a pivotal point for housing associations and local authorities looking for high-level expertise to navigate legal requirements following the introduction of the Building Safety Regulator in October 2023 and the new building control regime now in place, plus recent updates to fire safety regulations.”

Feeney further noted the collaborative efforts in developing FS2, which focused on tailoring the framework to meet specific public sector needs, significantly enhancing the availability of regional suppliers, particularly small and micro companies, which make up 76% of the appointed firms.

FS2: A boon for regional development and safety

FS2 is structured around eight workstreams across four main areas: consultancy and risk management, fire safety installations, fire safety servicing and maintenance, and cladding remediation.

The framework is not only a significant development for fire safety but also a boost to local economies, supporting community projects and creating regional employment opportunities.

With an allocation of £110 million for England, £15 million for Wales, and £25 million for Scotland, the framework is accessible via direct award and mini competitions through LHC’s business units across the country.

It aims to serve a diverse range of public sector entities, including housing associations, local authorities, hospitals, schools, leisure centres, museums, and universities.

For more information on the FS2 framework and its services, visit the LHC Procurement Group’s website.

IFSJ Comment

The establishment of the FS2 framework marks a significant step forward in the UK’s commitment to enhancing fire safety across the public sector.

This framework meets both the immediate legal requirements whilst preparing the ground for future safety enhancements.

By incorporating a broad spectrum of fire safety services and focusing on regional growth and community support, FS2 is poised to make a lasting impact on the public sector’s approach to fire safety and building management.

Sentry Fire Safety Group recognised among the UK’s fastest-growing businesses

by Featured NewsFire Doors

Overview of the achievement

Sentry Fire Safety Group has been acknowledged as one of the fastest-growing investment-backed businesses in the UK.

This recognition is part of a landmark report by BDO LLP, which examines value creation and growth acceleration within the sector.

Sentry Doors, under the ownership of Cairngorm Capital, has demonstrated significant performance advancements in the UK’s competitive manufacturing landscape, particularly in fire safety and security doorsets.

Details of the report

The inaugural Private Equity Value Report, authored by Real Deals on behalf of BDO, highlights that the 435 qualifying businesses showed an average combined EBITDA and Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 100% between 2020 and 2022.

Sentry Doors not only exceeded these benchmarks but also secured impressive rankings within regional and sector-specific categories.

Growth and expansion strategies

Since Cairngorm Capital’s acquisition in 2019, Sentry Fire Safety Group has seen exponential growth.

With a £3 million investment enhancing their manufacturing capabilities and the strategic acquisition of E. & S. W. Knowles & Company Limited, Sentry has significantly expanded its production capacity and diversified its product range.

This has enabled them to address the increasing demands of new fire safety legislation effectively.

Employment and training initiatives

The company’s growth has also led to a substantial increase in employment, with the workforce expanding from 28 in 2019 to 200 in 2024.

Sentry prioritises employee development through robust training programmes, contributing to a knowledgeable and skilled workforce.

This commitment extends to supporting the local economy by maintaining a strong network of local supply chain partners.

Sentry Fire Safety Group’s commitment to sustainability

Sentry has embarked on a sustainability journey, implementing eco-friendly practices such as waste sawdust recycling and innovative heating systems in their facilities.

Their commitment to environmental responsibility is further demonstrated by their engagement with sustainability initiatives and certifications.

Industry insights and quotes

Ty Aziz, CEO of Sentry Doors, expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s fantastic to be named alongside so many impressive businesses and is a testament to the support of our investors and the hard work of our team.

“It’s important to shine a light on the positive impact that external investment can have on business’ ambitions and their contribution to their industries and the economy.”

Additionally, Nick Millward from BDO LLP remarked on the resilience and dynamism of PE-backed businesses, emphasizing the value created through concerted efforts of investors and management teams.

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of Sentry Fire Safety Group as one of the UK’s fastest-growing businesses reflects the company’s strategic planning and execution excellence.

Their significant contributions to employment and regional manufacturing capabilities, coupled with a focus on sustainable practices, position them as a leader in the fire safety sector.

New research challenges UK’s furniture fire safety standards

by Featured NewsResearch

Study exposes weaknesses in UK furniture fire safety regulations

A new study by The University of Central Lancashire, led by Professor Richard Hull, has uncovered potential shortcomings in the current UK regulations for the fire safety of upholstered furniture.

The research identifies significant variations in the fire hazards posed by furniture composites that comply with existing rules, despite the UK’s stringent furniture flammability regulations.

This study highlights the extensive use of chemical flame retardants in furniture, making up to 10 or 20% of a standard domestic sofa’s composition.

These chemicals, which can leach out into household dust and the environment, are linked to serious health risks such as cancer, intellectual disability, reproductive toxicity, and endocrine disruption.

The research also notes that most fire fatalities are caused by the inhalation of toxic smoke from fires involving upholstered furniture.

The health and environmental risks of chemical flame retardants

The study examined various materials, including those treated with brominated flame retardants (BFRs), tris(chloropropyl) phosphate (TCPP), low-toxicity expandable graphite coatings, and untreated substances.

Findings showed that fabrics and fillings treated with BFRs and/or TCPP released significantly higher levels of carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and other toxic smoke compounds in fire scenarios.

Professor Richard Hull commented: “The research that we have conducted raises the question of why flame retardants which do not improve fire safety are still being added to furniture.”

Calls for regulatory reform in light of new findings

The revelation of these findings has led to calls for urgent regulatory reform to address the fire risks associated with upholstered furniture more effectively.

The study argues against merely adding more flame retardants to meet regulatory requirements, advocating for a more balanced approach that enhances fire safety while minimising exposure to harmful chemicals.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) is currently reviewing feedback from stakeholders, highlighting the need for immediate action in response to the research’s findings.

Professor Hull further expressed concern over the current use of flame retardants in furniture: “Despite the regulations in place in the UK on fire safety, the proportion of fire fatalities resulting from smoke inhalation must still be addressed.

“The flame retardants used in furniture not only toxify household dust and the environment, but also make fire smoke much more toxic.”

IFSJ Comment

The University of Central Lancashire‘s research into the fire safety of upholstered furniture has unveiled critical insights that challenge the efficacy of current UK regulations.

By shedding light on the health and environmental hazards posed by chemical flame retardants, this study serves as a crucial call to action for regulatory bodies, manufacturers, and stakeholders across the fire safety and furniture industries.

It underlines the need for a reassessment of fire safety standards to prioritise both human health and environmental well-being.

As the UK considers this new evidence, the outcomes could lead to significant shifts in fire safety regulations, impacting the manufacturing practices of upholstered furniture and the use of flame retardants.

Experts warn against the fire risks of charging phones in bed

by Featured NewsSafety

The dangers of charging phones overnight

Firechief Global, a provider of fire safety solutions in the UK, has issued a public warning about the hazards associated with charging mobile phones beside the bed at night.

This caution comes in light of data showing that a significant portion of the population, including a third of teenagers, have the habit of sleeping with their phones under their pillows, and 74% of Britons charge their devices in their bedrooms.

This practice, according to experts, poses a considerable risk of fire.

The impact on sleep quality

Ana Brito, a certified sleep expert, also highlighted the negative effects of this habit on sleep quality.

She noted that having a charging phone within easy reach overnight can disrupt sleep patterns due to constant notifications and screen light, preventing users from achieving deep, restorative sleep.

Fire risks associated with phone charging

Laurie Pollard, the Managing Director of Firechief Global, emphasized the fire hazard posed by charging phones under pillows or blankets.

“Phones generate heat during charging, and covering them with pillows or blankets can trap that heat, increasing the risk of overheating and potentially causing a fire,” Pollard explained.

He stressed the importance of charging phones on open, flat surfaces away from flammable materials to mitigate these risks.

Sleep and psychological effects

Ana Brito addressed the psychological implications of being too close to one’s phone at night.

She discussed the cycle of dependency created by the need to check notifications, which can affect both physical safety and mental health.

Brito advocated for establishing a tech-free zone at least an hour before bedtime to improve sleep hygiene.

Safer charging practices

Pollard also warned against overcharging, noting that it is a leading cause of fires in devices with lithium-ion batteries.

Although modern smartphones have systems to prevent overcharging, the risk remains if these systems fail.

He advised against charging phones on bedside tables, especially those made of combustible materials, to reduce the risk of fire.

IFSJ Comment

The warning from Firechief Global sheds light on a commonly overlooked hazard in many households: charging phones overnight in bedrooms.

The combination of fire safety and sleep experts speaking out on this issue highlights a critical need for awareness and change in our nightly habits.

As technology becomes further ingrained in our daily lives, recognising and mitigating associated risks is essential for our safety and health.

Educating the public on safe charging practices and the importance of creating a tech-free bedroom environment is a step forward in addressing these concerns.

New fire safety reinsurance initiative to improve insurance availability for buildings

by Featured NewsSafety

Introduction of the Fire Safety Reinsurance Facility

The Fire Safety Reinsurance Facility (the Facility) is set to launch on 1 April 2024, marking a significant intervention in the insurance industry aimed at enhancing the availability of insurance for buildings with combustible cladding and other fire safety concerns.

Established by McGill and Partners with substantial support from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA), the Facility seeks to expand insurance capacity for affected buildings and foster market competition.

This initiative is designed as a temporary measure, expected to operate for three to five years, to address urgent safety works needed to ensure building safety and resilience.

Mechanism and impact of the Facility

Participating insurers, including Allianz, Aviva, Axa, RSA, and Zurich, will introduce high-risk buildings awaiting remediation works into the Facility during their annual renewal process.

These companies, actively providing cover for commercial and residential buildings, aim to mitigate the fragmented insurance approach caused by the heightened risk profiles of certain buildings.

The Grenfell tragedy and subsequent reviews have underscored the necessity of this Facility by revealing the complexities surrounding insurance coverage for buildings with significant fire safety issues.

Statements from industry leaders

Steve McGill CBE, Founder & CEO of McGill and Partners, highlighted the importance of addressing fire safety risks in insuring cladded, multi-occupancy buildings: “Insuring cladded, multi-occupancy buildings that pose a fire safety risk has challenged our industry for some time.

“However, this unique facility aims to present a competitive market solution that will address this important issue and I am incredibly proud that McGill and Partners has played such a pivotal role.”

Mervyn Skeet, ABI Director of General Insurance, also stressed the role of the ABI in supporting leaseholders and improving insurance availability: “Supporting leaseholders and making insurance more widely available for higher-risk buildings with fire safety issues has been one of the ABI’s top priorities.

“I’m grateful to McGill and Partners and all the firms involved for their help in establishing this commercial intervention and hope it will encourage more insurers to enter the market and offer cover for these buildings.”

IFSJ Comment

The initiation of the Fire Safety Reinsurance Facility is a commendable step towards resolving the ongoing insurance challenges faced by buildings with fire safety concerns.

By creating a collaborative platform that involves major insurers and reinsurance companies, the industry is taking a proactive approach to not only expand insurance capacity but also encourage necessary safety remediations.

While the Facility offers a temporary solution, its underlying goal to incite broader industry and governmental action towards building safety is vital.

As the Facility begins its operations, the focus on supporting leaseholders and reducing the insurance complexities for buildings at risk signifies a positive shift towards a more secure and resilient built environment.

Progress in fire safety remediation of high-rise social housing in England

by Featured NewsSafety

Overview of Fire Safety Remediation Survey

The second Fire Safety Remediation Survey for buildings over 11 metres in England was conducted between 1 December and 31 December 2023, with findings as of 30 November 2023.

This survey, aimed at large and small landlords, is part of a continuous effort to ensure fire safety in multi-occupied, medium and high-rise buildings.

The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) and the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have overseen this initiative, emphasizing the importance of landlords meeting their obligations under the Fire Safety (Regulatory) Order 2005.

Key Findings and Progress

According to the November 2023 survey, significant progress has been made in fire safety remediation.

Data from 96% of landlords, including 100% of large private registered providers (PRPs) and local authority registered providers (LARPs), showed an improvement in remediation delivery compared to the first survey.

Out of 1,437 landlords, 30% reported responsibility for at least one building over 11 metres, primarily large landlords.

These landlords reported a total of 17,320 buildings over 11 metres, with 97.6% having undergone fire risk assessments.

Notably, 1,952 buildings were identified with life critical fire safety (LCFS) defects related to external wall systems (EWS), and remedial work is underway or planned for a majority of these buildings.

Future Expectations and Responsibilities

Landlords expect that 78% of buildings with EWS-related LCFS defects will be remediated within the next five years.

The survey emphasizes the role of boards and councillors in ensuring landlords meet legal obligations and manage identified risks effectively.

Ensuring organizations have robust systems and processes for fire safety management is crucial for tenant safety.

The survey also underscores the need for accurate and up-to-date data on fire safety.

IFSJ Comment

The latest survey results demonstrate a positive trend in addressing fire safety concerns in England’s high-rise social housing.

The increased participation and improvements in data quality from landlords indicate a growing awareness and commitment to ensuring tenant safety.

The survey reflects the ongoing efforts to meet legal obligations and manage fire safety risks effectively.

The continuous improvement in fire safety standards is essential for the well-being of residents in high-rise buildings.

As the sector moves forward, these efforts will likely serve as a benchmark for fire safety management in residential buildings.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service to conclude contract with Eurotunnel in 2025

by Featured NewsIndustrialSafety

KFRS to terminate long-standing fire cover contract with Eurotunnel

After nearly three decades of providing dedicated fire and rescue services to the Channel Tunnel, Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has announced its decision to end its private contract with Eurotunnel by next year.

This exclusive arrangement, which has ensured round-the-clock fire cover at the critical crossing, is distinct from the public services offered by KFRS across Kent.

KFRS Chief Executive, Ann Millington, highlighted the evolution of the service’s commitments: “While the operation is no longer viable for Kent Fire and Rescue Service, fire cover and safety will not be compromised – there will still be a fire station at the tunnel with a full fire and rescue team.”

Continued commitment to safety

Despite the forthcoming conclusion of this longstanding contract, the commitment to safety at the Channel Tunnel remains unwavering.

KFRS assures that the protective measures in place for the tunnel will not see a decline.

The service plans to maintain a fully staffed fire station at the Eurotunnel site, ensuring that expert fire and rescue teams are always on hand.

“KFRS’ strong working relationship with Eurotunnel will continue, and firefighters at stations nearest to the crossing, such as Dover, Folkestone, and Ashford, will continue to respond to emergencies at the site when called out via 999, in the usual way,” Millington added, reinforcing the service’s dedication to emergency response and safety for the Channel Tunnel.

The search for alternative solutions

As the current phase of the partnership between KFRS and Eurotunnel approaches its end, Eurotunnel is set to explore alternative options for maintaining 24/7 onsite fire and rescue services.

This proactive approach ensures that the high safety standards and swift emergency responses that have characterised the Eurotunnel for nearly 30 years will continue without interruption.

IFSJ Comment

The announcement of the end of Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s exclusive contract with Eurotunnel marks a significant transition in the provision of fire and rescue services at one of the UK’s most critical transport links.

This change opens a new chapter in ensuring the safety and security of the Channel Tunnel, reflecting both organisations’ adaptability and commitment to public safety.

As Eurotunnel seeks new solutions for round-the-clock fire cover, the continued collaboration with KFRS and local fire stations will remain a cornerstone of emergency response at the crossing.

Fire safety training initiative ‘Project Kestrel’ launched by London Fire Brigade for security and facilities staff

by Featured NewsSafetyTraining

Introduction to Project Kestrel

London Fire Brigade has developed an innovative online training package, named Project Kestrel, aimed at enhancing the fire safety knowledge of security and facilities staff.

This initiative, created in collaboration with the City of London Crime Prevention Association and the Corporation of London, emerged from a multi-agency exercise highlighting the potential to improve the capabilities of security professionals.

Project Kestrel seeks to provide additional confidence to building owners and managers by ensuring their personnel are well-trained in fire safety, security awareness, and emergency response measures.

The significance of Project Kestrel for security officers

With over 115,000 licensed security officers in the London area, Project Kestrel aims to empower those often first on the scene at emergencies with the skills to respond effectively to fire alarms and incidents.

Trained officers will be better prepared to assist in emergencies, ensuring firefighters receive critical information upon their arrival.

James Chapman, London Fire Brigade’s Borough Commander for The City, expressed the project’s value: “This is a great project, giving security officers protecting some of the UK’s most complex and impressive buildings the opportunity to enhance their skill set to help firefighters in the event of an emergency at their building.”

Partnerships and participant feedback

The development and implementation of Project Kestrel highlight the strength of public-private partnerships in enhancing community safety.

Don Randall MBE, Chairman of the City of London Crime Prevention Association, praised the programme: “The current training a security officer receives only touches on the basics of fire awareness which makes Project Kestrel the ideal training programme for frontline security staff to enhance their knowledge.”

Rajeev Pradhan, Director of Operations at Bidvest Noonan, shared positive feedback from participants, noting the comprehensive nature of the training and its flexibility in pacing, which allows for a thorough understanding of fire safety principles.

Participants of Project Kestrel are required to complete six training modules, focusing on safety and security aspects related to fire in the workplace.

The course, which awards 2 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, takes approximately three hours to complete.

An enrolment fee of £25 includes a contribution to the London Fire Brigade’s Fire Cadets programme, among other fundraising initiatives, and supports the Cross-Sector Safety and Security Communications charity.

IFSJ comment

The launch of Project Kestrel by London Fire Brigade, in collaboration with the City of London Crime Prevention Association and the Corporation of London, marks a proactive step towards bolstering fire safety and security skills among security and facilities personnel.

This initiative enhances the preparedness of security staff in the event of a, strengthening the collaborative efforts between public and private sectors to safeguard communities.

By offering comprehensive training that covers all essential aspects of fire safety, Project Kestrel ensures that security officers are not only well-informed but also capable of acting decisively during emergencies.

The programme’s focus on continuous professional development and its support for charitable causes further underscore its commitment to both individual growth and community welfare.

An escape room project amplifies fire safety awareness among students

by Featured NewsSafety

Euralarm introduces innovative approach to fire safety education

In an initiative aimed at enhancing fire safety awareness, the Dutch fire department in the north of the Netherlands has introduced an innovative escape room experience for university students.

This project, part of an annual challenge to encourage community-based projects with a fire safety theme, was developed by five students from the Communication and Multimedia program.

A creative challenge to raise awareness

The project stands out for its creative approach to engaging students in fire safety.

“This approach allows us to see how an ‘out of the box’ perspective can lead to the most innovative and engaging creations,” said a spokesperson for the fire department.

The escape room, named Room18, was selected for its potential to connect with students and encourage them to think critically about fire safety.

Inside Room18: an immersive learning experience

Room18 offers an immersive experience where participants solve puzzles related to fire safety to escape within 10 minutes.

This time pressure is designed to mirror the urgency of real-life fire situations.

“The puzzles are designed to encourage students to identify safety hazards, fostering critical observation skills,” explained the project creators.

The escape room experience is heightened with dynamic changes in the environment, such as sound and lighting adjustments and simulated smoke, to reflect the real dangers of a fire incident.

“It’s crucial to recognize smoke as the most dangerous element in a fire scenario,” the creators added, highlighting the educational aspect of the experience.

Collaboration and continuous improvement

The project has not only facilitated collaboration among students but also allowed for continuous development based on feedback and the incorporation of current fire safety issues.

Since its launch last year, Room18 has been successfully implemented in multiple locations and educational institutions throughout the Northern Netherlands.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of an escape room to teach fire safety to students represents a novel and effective method of education.

By engaging participants in a realistic and immersive scenario, it ensures that the lessons on fire safety are both memorable and impactful.

This initiative highlights the importance of innovative educational tools in raising awareness and fostering a culture of safety among young adults.

Through continuous development and adaptation, projects like Room18 can remain relevant and continue to educate on vital safety issues effectively.

Charting a new course in fire safety with Avene Furness

by Breaking NewsConstructionPassive

Innovation and Integrity in Fire Safety with Avene Furness, Founder and Managing Director of Chute Fire Certification UK

Avene Furness, Managing Director of Chute Fire Certification UK, has a rich background in sales spanning various sectors, including FMCG and advertising.

Her journey into the fire safety industry was not a straightforward one.

Furness recalls her shift from a demanding role as a UK Sales Manager to a more balanced position, coinciding with personal life changes.

“I was UK Sales Manager running a team of 12 and the hours were crazy – so the timing was just right for a change,” Furness recalls.

This led her to a sales consultant role in a company focused on residential laundry chutes, with the aim to expand into commercial sectors.

Despite her initial lack of fire safety knowledge, Furness made significant strides, securing the Gansevoort Hotel as her first commercial business.

“I didn’t know a thing about fire safety but I landed the first ever piece of commercial business,” she says, demonstrating her sales prowess.

The Grenfell Tower tragedy further shaped her perspective, revealing to her the opportunistic tendencies within the industry.

“I couldn’t believe what I was seeing, it was like they were capitalising on people’s fear and grief,” she tells.

This prompted her to advocate for a more ethical approach in the sector.

Furness’s commitment to changing industry norms led to the founding of Chute Fire Certification UK.

“Seeing the way the competitors operated, from the insane mark ups to the customer service aspect, I just felt there was a way to take a socially responsible approach,” she explains.

She pursued fire safety education rigorously, becoming a registered Fire Technician, and aimed to establish a company that excelled in customer service and transparency.

“I wanted a company that gave great customer service and the price was a set price,” Furness states, marking a departure from common industry practices.

Her vision for Chute Fire Certification UK was deeply influenced by the market’s demand for integrity and fairness.

Furness says: “My passion was to try and set up a company that was very transparent, trustworthy and offer value for money.”

Navigating early challenges

In the initial stages of Chute Fire Certification UK, Furness encountered a series of challenges that tested her transition from industry expert to business leader.

“The biggest obstacle I had was that I was probably quite naïve,” she reflects, acknowledging the learning curve involved in her new role.

A key issue she identified was the industry’s inadequate training and qualifications for chute servicing personnel.

“At the time nobody was sending people out to do chutes that were qualified, they weren’t engineers, they were labourers,” Furness notes, pinpointing a significant market gap.

The turning point for Furness came with direct engagement in subcontracting, leading to the expansion of services and the start of in-house product development.

“That’s when we started the journey of product development and fabricating our own products,” she states, highlighting her strategic pivot.

Since its inception, Chute Fire Certification UK has made significant strides, carving out a niche in the fire safety industry with innovative products and a strong customer retention rate.

Furness, the driving force behind these achievements, shares key milestones that have defined the company’s journey.

One of the company’s most notable successes is the development and launch of its own product lines.

“We have five ranges of refuse hopper doors,” Furness proudly states, highlighting the company’s move towards self-sufficiency in manufacturing.

Moreover, the chute safe protection system, a uniquely designed and registered product in the UK, stands out as a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and safety.

“We’ve also had that product third party assessed by the International Fire Consultants as a premium product,” she adds, underscoring the recognition it has received.

The importance of Certified Fire Technicians

Furness emphasises the critical importance of fire safety in managing commercial refuse and laundry chutes.

She outlines two key aspects: legislative compliance and practical safety measures.

“Whoever the responsible person is for a building or a housing association, from a legitimacy point of view they need to ensure that they are compliant as it’s their head if something goes wrong,” Furness explains, highlighting the legal responsibility.

From a safety perspective, the absence of properly protected and maintained chutes can lead to catastrophic consequences.

“If these chutes aren’t properly protected by a product that has been tested to the appropriate standard, BS476: Part 22: 1987 and they aren’t maintained properly then they won’t work as intended,” she warns, stressing the potential risks of an uncontrolled fire spreading through a building due to inadequate chute systems.

She strongly believes in the necessity of having knowledgeable and certified fire technicians and qualified engineers: “They need to have that background knowledge and understanding of the fire regulations.”

This belief is rooted in her own extensive experience and firsthand involvement in product development.

Regarding staff training, Furness details a comprehensive approach, combining construction site safety with continuous professional development (CPD).

The engineers’ training is aligned with the latest developments in regulations and fire safety practices.

“We actively promote CPD and as members of the FPA (Fire Protection Agency), we have access to the latest educational developments,” she notes, emphasising the ongoing learning process.

Additionally, the engineers undergo various safety-related trainings, such as SSSTS, asbestos awareness, and first aid, reflecting the company’s commitment to overall safety and compliance.

Furness’s IOSH certification and her role in coordinating training demonstrate her hands-on involvement in ensuring her team’s proficiency and adherence to safety standards.

Breaking barriers and looking ahead

Furness has carved a distinct path in the predominantly male fire safety industry.

Her approach transcends gender perceptions, focusing instead on expertise and hands-on involvement.

“I don’t think I’m looked at as a woman, or rather it’s never played a part in terms of how I’ve approached the work,” she states, underlining that her success is rooted in her depth of knowledge and willingness to be actively involved in all aspects of her business.

She emphasises the importance of being well-informed and capable of independently handling client queries and challenges on site.

“My clients see me on site, they see me getting dirty as part of the job,” she says, showcasing her commitment to leading by example.

Looking forward, Chute Fire Certification UK is poised for further growth and expansion.

Furness outlines the company’s plan to venture beyond their current specialisation in refurbishing chutes to tackling more new installation projects.

“We’re now at a place where we need to kick on to the next level,” Furness reveals, indicating a strategic shift towards more complex and challenging projects.

This evolution reflects the company’s continuous pursuit of excellence and growth in the fire safety sector.

Furness offers valuable advice for new entrepreneurs in fire safety or other specialised sectors.

Her guidance stresses the importance of thorough industry knowledge, a deep understanding of regulations, and active field experience.

“You have to know the regulations, barriers to entry, you need to be out in the field, living and breathing it,” she advises.

She also emphasises the significance of continuous learning, networking, and maintaining focus on one’s vision without getting sidetracked by competitors.

“Stick to your plan, why you wanted to set up the business in the first place and what you felt you could offer,” she counsels, underscoring the need for integrity and hard work in building a successful enterprise.

If you’d like to explore how Chute Fire Certification UK can help enhance yours or your clients’ projects and ensure legal compliance you can get in touch at enquiries@chutefire.co.uk.

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