Green and living walls: Fire and safety risks and management guide published by UK insurers

by Associations and OrganisationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafetySustainability

New guide published to manage risks of green and living walls

A new joint guide has been published by the Fire Protection Association (FPA) to address potential risks associated with green and living walls when used as external cladding.

The document, titled “Green and Living Walls as External Cladding – A Joint Guide to Managing Risk,” examines the implications of living walls on building resilience and continuity of business or services.

The guide focuses on risks related to fire, escape of water (EoW), and weather events.

According to the guide: “Many Living Walls are of a scale and location that presents no additional risk to the scenario that would warrant further consideration, but others, applied at larger scale to a building, might have the potential to exert great influence on the safety and insurability of that building – and others around it – if not properly designed and maintained.”

Collaboration and endorsement

The guide is a collaborative effort between key living wall providers and UK insurers through the FPA’s RISCAuthority research scheme.

It has received endorsements from various organisations, including Vertical Meadow, Viritopia, ABI, Biotecture, Growing Revolution, and Scotscape.

Aimed at building designers, façade engineers, architects, product suppliers, owners, insurers, fire services, and maintenance personnel, the guide is divided into two parts.

The first part is an interactive questionnaire that gathers essential information about the proposed living wall system to determine if it requires special consideration.

The second part offers background information and guidance on risk control, focusing on core principles such as engagement, testing, documentation, materials, design, upkeep, and monitoring.

Addressing potential risks

The guide suggests practical solutions for living wall systems with potential risks, helping to reduce business and property risks and assist with insurance provision.

It also highlights that living walls are just one factor insurers consider when assessing building safety and property resilience.

Challenges addressed in the guide include:

  • Combustibility of planted biomass and its dependency on irrigation and maintenance
  • Extensive use of plastics in some living wall designs
  • Complexity of creating a fire-safe design when used in rainscreen-type cladding systems
  • Lack of guidance on managing penetrations to prevent fire spread
  • Inadequate certification tests for fire challenges
  • Potential for mass fire spread over and within the building
  • Insufficient Building Regulations for property protection
  • Consideration of water and wind damage potential

Professor Jim Glockling commented on the guide: “The new risk management document, produced with exceptional collaboration between all stakeholders, sets out an agreed suite of core control principles, provides a framework for information exchange with the AHJ, and establishes methods of control so that the design may be tailored to meet the needs of all.

With some solution parameters currently unverified, the document is as much a call for further research and testing as it is a guidance document.”

CLM Fire Testing partners with FPA for UKAS accredited fire testing laboratory

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsResearch

CLM Fire Testing and FPA collaboration for new lab

CLM Fire Testing, part of CLM Group, has announced a partnership with the Fire Protection Association (FPA) to establish a new UKAS accredited fire testing laboratory.

As reported by CLM Fire Testing, this collaboration aims to enhance fire safety standards and foster innovation within the fire protection industry.

The partnership will provide clients and the supply chain with premier access to essential fire testing services.

The new facility promises equitable pricing, superior service availability, and complete independence and impartiality, ensuring rigorous testing standards.

CEO remarks on the new facility

Tom Gilbert, CEO of CLM Group, stated: “CLM’s commitment to improving the built environment is unwavering.

“Our significant investment in much-needed testing capacity in the UK will enable our clients to access our UKAS accredited laboratory, conveniently and without excessive lead times.”

He emphasised the importance of impartiality and the seamless approach to accessing high-quality testing, facilitated by the partnership with the FPA.

Gilbert highlighted the importance of this new facility for Tier 1 contractors involved in large and complex projects, ensuring a high level of assurance and conflict-free testing.

FPA’s perspective on the partnership

Dr Gavin Dunn, Managing Director of the FPA, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “I’m thrilled to be moving forward with this collaboration which expands our fire resistance testing services into a new market segment and complements our existing partnership with UL Solutions.”

Dunn underscored the importance of this step in building a trusted industry ecosystem, ensuring safe buildings through scientific proof and impartial testing of construction details and systems.

He also highlighted the investment in two furnaces at the FPA’s laboratory, which will support new clients in ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Technical capabilities of the new lab

The new facility will feature large-scale and smaller-scale vertical furnaces capable of reaching temperatures in excess of 1000°C.

These furnaces can test a range of fire resistance standards for various product types, including building construction components, fire door sets, walls and partitions, glazing, linear joint seals, and penetration seals.

FPA releases updated guidelines for LPC sprinkler rules

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire Suppression

Updated technical bulletin for LPC sprinkler rules focuses on idle pallet storage

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has released a revised Technical Bulletin (TB) as part of its LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinkler Installations 2015, providing updated guidance on the proper storage of idle pallets within the industry.

As reported by the FPA, the LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinkler Installations 2015 is the UK’s primary sprinkler installation standard, incorporating the full BS EN 12845:2015+A1:2019 standard and related Technical Bulletins.

The TB215: Sprinkler Protection of Idle Pallet Storage update addresses the increasing number of timber and plastic pallets found both internally and externally in various storage configurations.

Fire risks and solutions for idle pallets

The updated TB outlines the significant challenge idle pallet storage poses to sprinklers in controlling or extinguishing fires.

Wooden pallets, in particular, can dry out and ignite easily when stacked in piles inside warehouses.

TB215: 2024: 1 addresses these risks by providing enhanced solutions for contractors and clients.

The bulletin offers detailed guidance on pallet material classification, storage arrangements, and storage options concerning height and design density.

It also includes a cross-reference to TB234: Protection to High Hazard Storage (HHS) Configurations and information about sprinkler head requirements, Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) options, and confirmed water supply options.

Comprehensive research and updates for subscribers

The revised TB incorporates recent research reviewing fire test information and international standards to offer a more robust sprinkler protection option for idle pallet storage.

For digital subscribers, the TB has been automatically updated on both web and app platforms, while print subscribers will receive the update by post along with the necessary filing instructions.

This update follows the FPA’s launch of a subscription service for the LPC Sprinkler Rules in January 2024.

The subscription model ensures that subscribers automatically receive the latest updates, including new and revised TBs, throughout the year for an annual fee.

This service aims to keep subscribers informed of the latest changes in life safety and property protection.

Promat to address fire risk management in energy upgrades at FPA Spring Seminar

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured News

Addressing fire risks in energy upgrades: Promat’s role at FPA Spring Seminar on Wednesday 17 April

Promat will play a central role in the Fire Protection Association’s Spring Seminar, focusing on managing fire risks during energy performance upgrades of buildings.

As this year’s headline sponsor, the seminar will feature discussions led by industry experts including Promat’s Technical Director, Nigel Morrey.

The seminar is aligned with themes of fire safety and sustainability within the built environment, topics that are increasingly crucial in light of global sustainability efforts.

Key themes and expert discussions

The seminar will extend discussions from COP28, which brought global leaders together to debate carbon emissions in the built environment.

Nigel Morrey and other panel experts will explore the implications of energy upgrades on fire safety.

“With an increased focus on effective fire safety mitigation in the construction industry, partnered with the tough challenges of addressing sustainability, this event will be an important opportunity to raise awareness of potential fire risks in energy upgrades – and discuss how to address these,” said Morrey.

Seminar details and participant information

The FPA Spring Seminar is scheduled for April 17 at the Chicago Booth’s London Conference Centre and will also be available online.

Promat, part of the Etex group, is known for its expertise in protective board solutions that maintain compartmentation and ensure structural integrity in fire events.

This seminar aims to facilitate a broad discussion on balancing fire safety with sustainable building practices.

IFSJ Comment

The involvement of Promat in the FPA Spring Seminar underscores the critical intersection of fire safety and environmental sustainability in building design.

As the built environment contributes significantly to global emissions, discussions at such seminars are essential for developing safe and sustainable architectural practices.

By addressing these dual aspects, the seminar not only promotes enhanced fire safety protocols but also supports the broader goals of sustainability in the construction industry.

FPA Managing Director Dr Gavin Dunn highlights fire safety in the net zero era

by Associations and OrganisationsSafetySustainability

Overview of Dr Dunn’s insights on net zero and fire safety

Dr Gavin Dunn, the newly appointed Managing Director of the Fire Protection Association (FPA), recently emphasised the interconnection between achieving net zero goals and fire safety in the built environment sector.

With his background as a chartered building engineer, Dr Dunn highlighted how the pursuit of decarbonisation and net zero is influencing business decisions and changing the risk profile in this sector.

He stressed that new practices and materials aimed at meeting these environmental targets introduce risks previously unencountered, especially in the context of fire safety.

Dr Dunn said: “As we drive towards net zero, the imperative to decarbonise is increasingly driving business decisions, and this holds true for the built environment sector.”

He also warned of the fire risks associated with new technologies and materials, such as high-performance insulation, timber construction, and energy systems like solar panels and heat pumps.

Dunn expressed concerns over potential fire events involving these technologies, noting they not only increase the risk of fire but also pose challenges due to the release of potentially toxic effluents and embodied carbon.

FPA Spring Seminar: Fire Safety and Sustainability of the Built Environment

The FPA Spring Seminar, titled ‘Fire Safety and Sustainability of the Built Environment‘, will be opened by Dr Dunn on 17 April at Chicago Booth’s London Conference Centre and online.

The seminar, featuring advice and guidance from industry experts, is designed to help businesses maintain best practice fire safety management amidst evolving sustainability requirements.

Sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including modernising construction, legislative changes, fire risks in timber constructions, and managing fire risks while enhancing building energy performance.

This event is aimed at a broad audience, including building owners, responsible persons, fire risk assessors, fire safety managers, contractors, designers, and insurers.

The seminar will provide invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of fire safety and environmental sustainability.

Importance of balancing sustainability and fire safety

Dr Dunn emphasised the importance of implementing net zero plans in the built environment safely and efficiently.

He stated: “It is vital, however, that we now learn how to do this safely and efficiently.”

This statement underscores the FPA’s commitment to enhancing fire safety awareness, particularly in the context of the built environment’s evolving sustainability requirements.

The FPA’s efforts through this seminar and other initiatives reflect the broader industry trend of integrating environmental sustainability with fire safety.

By focusing on these areas, the FPA aims to ensure that the drive towards a more sustainable future does not compromise safety standards.

IFSJ Comment

The FPA’s focus on fire safety in the context of net zero goals addresses a critical aspect of sustainability in the built environment.

As the industry moves towards environmentally friendly practices, the need for a comprehensive understanding of the associated risks, especially in terms of fire safety, becomes increasingly vital.

The FPA’s initiatives, such as the upcoming Spring Seminar, play a key role in educating industry professionals and stakeholders about the complexities at this intersection.

By fostering a dialogue between experts and practitioners, the FPA is contributing significantly to the development of safer, more sustainable building practices.

NAFDI approves FPA fire door inspection course

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsFire DoorsTraining

Course approval by National Association of Fire Door Inspectors

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has announced that its Level 3 Award Fire Door Inspection course has been officially recognised by the National Association of Fire Door Inspectors (NAFDI).

This recognition marks a significant milestone for the FPA, as NAFDI is the UK’s leading organisation for fire door inspection.

The course, spanning three days, educates trainees on various aspects of fire doors, including their types, functions, and the importance of adhering to industry standard inspection procedures.

NAFDI has endorsed the FPA course as both a competency and an advanced training course.

This approval enables those who have completed the FPA Level 3 Certification to apply for NAFDI membership and request certification from this recognised body.

Comprehensive nature and practical focus of the course

A recent auditing session conducted by a NAFDI official on the FPA’s fire door inspection training highlighted the course’s comprehensive coverage of key topics.

This detailed approach ensures that participants gain a deep understanding of fire door principles and safety measures.

The course has been praised for its structured test focusing on inspection procedures, where participants are assessed on their ability to identify critical components, evaluate door functionality, and spot potential issues.

The practical aspect of the course requires hands-on application of knowledge, simulating real-world scenarios.

This element is crucial for participants to effectively translate their learning into practice.

Impact of the course’s approval on industry standards

Kelly Donoghue, Head of Training at the FPA, expressed her delight at this partnership with NAFDI, emphasising their shared goal of improving fire door inspection standards.

She said: “We are delighted to partner with NAFDI, with a common purpose of continuous improvement to the fire door inspection standards.

“Now our Fire Door Inspection Course has been approved as a competency course (where certification holders can be added to the NAFDI directory) and as an advanced training course (where practitioners can request a NAFDI certification directly through NAFDI), it provides additional evidence to the public when securing services.”

IFSJ Comment

The recognition of the FPA’s Fire Door Inspection Course by NAFDI enhances the credibility of the FPA’s training programme and contributes to the broader goal of raising fire safety standards across the industry.

Such developments are crucial in ensuring that professionals involved in fire door inspections are thoroughly trained and equipped with the necessary skills to maintain high safety standards.

FPA introduces new subscription model for sprinkler installation rules

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has introduced a new subscription model for the LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinkler Installations 2015.

This move aims to streamline the distribution of updates and new Technical Bulletins to customers, ensuring they stay informed about the latest changes in fire safety and property protection.

Updated technical bulletins released

As part of this launch, the FPA has also announced the release of several new and updated Technical Bulletins.

These updates, available via the subscription service, reflect the latest research, testing, product innovation, and changes to international standards.

This move by the FPA is set to support customers in staying abreast of the evolving requirements and guidelines in the industry.

Sprinkler installation: subscription details and pricing

To access the latest LPC Sprinkler Rules and related Technical Bulletins, customers will need to pay an initial fee, which includes the first year’s subscription.

The subscription fee will then be due annually, allowing subscribers to receive updates as they are released.

The subscription is available in both print and digital formats, with the digital version accessible through the FPA website and a dedicated app.

James Stone, FPA Digital Marketing Manager, explained the rationale behind this new approach: “We have created the new subscription model to support our customers with accessing all new and revised Technical Bulletins as they are produced, for an annual cost-effective fee, rather than paying for individual batches of updates each time they are required.”

Dale Kinnersley, FPA Principal Consultant and Convenor of the RISCAuthority Sprinkler Rules Working Group, also commented on the significance of these updates: “The new and updated LPC Technical Bulletins have been written by the FPA with input from UK experts, insurer members of RISCAuthority, and other likeminded stakeholders such as the LPCB and BAFSA.

“The latest updates are based on research, testing, product innovation, and changes to recognised international standards that help underpin the requirements from insurers and provide more comprehensive fire protection system options in relation to current UK construction and industry practices.”

IFSJ Comment

The Fire Protection Association’s launch of a subscription model for the LPC Rules for Automatic Sprinkler Installations 2015 represents a significant step in providing up-to-date fire protection information to its customers.

This initiative is particularly relevant in an industry where standards and practices are continually evolving due to advancements in technology, research findings, and changes in regulations.

By offering a subscription model, the FPA ensures that those involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of sprinkler systems have ongoing access to the latest information, which is crucial for effective fire prevention and safety.

This approach also demonstrates the FPA’s commitment to adapting to the needs of its customers, offering them a more flexible and cost-effective way to stay informed.

As the industry moves forward, such initiatives are likely to become more commonplace, reflecting the dynamic nature of fire safety and the necessity for continuous education and adaptation.

Correction: the image on this post has been updated, replacing an image from Fomtec used in error.

FPA introduces fire safety e-learning to meet industry needs for flexible and accessible training

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has announced the launch of its new e-learning provision, designed to meet the growing demand for flexible and accessible fire safety training methods.

This initiative marks a significant step in the FPA’s commitment to enhancing fire safety education and making it more adaptable to individual needs.

A new era in fire safety training

The FPA’s e-learning provision aims to provide a range of learning solutions to cater to all learners, offering an alternative to traditional training methods.

With the objective of making fire safety education more accessible, this new suite of e-courses is available 24/7, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace and on a schedule that fits their lifestyle.

Benefits for learners and organisations

The e-courses are designed to be engaging and informative, incorporating videos, animations, and interactive activities to facilitate learning.

They cater to various learning styles with text, visual, and audio inputs, and provide instant feedback through assessments.

For organisations, e-learning offers a faster learning cycle, scalability, and reduced carbon footprint by eliminating the need for physical infrastructure and travel.

Courses available in the e-learning portfolio

The FPA’s e-learning portfolio includes courses such as ‘The Role of a Fire Warden’, ‘Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)’, ‘Hot Work and Permit to Work’, and ‘Fire Door Inspections: the Basics’.

Each course is tailored to equip individuals with essential knowledge in fire safety.

Tailored e-learning solutions

Understanding that each organisation has unique training needs, the FPA offers customised e-learning courses.

These tailored solutions ensure that the content directly addresses specific organisational roles and responsibilities, and can be integrated into an organisation’s Learning Management System for progress tracking.

A commitment to accessible education from the FPA

Kelly Donoghue, Head of Training at the FPA, expressed enthusiasm about the new e-learning initiative: “The launch of e-learning is not just a new service for the FPA but a promise and commitment to provide engaging, accessible, and future-ready education for all.

“Whether you are an individual looking to upskill or address a specific skills gap, or an organisation seeking tailored safety solutions with distinct requirements, our courses and team can meet your needs with material that is directly applicable to your organisation’s challenges.

“With e-learning, you can learn anytime, anywhere. We are excited about the possibilities this brings for our life-long learners.”

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of e-learning in fire safety by the FPA is a timely response to the evolving needs of the fire safety industry.

By offering flexible and accessible training methods, the FPA is ensuring that individuals and organisations can readily access vital fire safety education, essential for maintaining safety standards and compliance with regulations.

This development reflects a broader trend towards digital learning platforms, which are becoming increasingly crucial in providing effective and efficient training solutions in various sectors.

The FPA’s initiative is a significant step towards a more inclusive and adaptable approach to fire safety education, ensuring that learning opportunities are available to a wider audience, regardless of their geographical location or schedule constraints.

FPA appoints new Managing Director

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has announced Dr Gavin Dunn as its new managing director effective from February 2024.

Dr Dunn, who has been serving as the Chief Executive of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers since 2018, is set to bring his expertise in business leadership and fire safety to the forefront of the FPA’s operations.

Experience and vision: Dr Dunn’s roadmap for FPA

David Williams, Chair of the FPA, expressed confidence in Dr Dunn’s appointment: “We are delighted to have appointed Gavin to lead the FPA following an extensive recruitment process.”

Williams highlighted Dr Dunn’s achievements and his broad skill set as pivotal factors for his selection.

His leadership is expected to advance the FPA’s mission in the wake of Jon O’Neill’s tenure, who led the organisation for two decades.

Dr Gavin Dunn to further FPA’s fire safety goals

Gavin Dunn conveyed his commitment to the FPA’s objectives: “I am very pleased to be taking up the role of Managing Director and am committed to the FPA’s long term vision to continue to be the go-to authority in the field of fire protection.”

Dunn plans to leverage his knowledge and the FPA’s strategic values to drive advancements in fire safety standards and practices.

IFSJ Comment

The appointment of Dr Gavin Dunn as Managing Director of the FPA marks a significant leadership transition for the UK’s leading fire safety organisation.

His background as a Chartered Building Engineer and his track record with the Chartered Association of Building Engineers set a precedent for a strong direction in fire safety advocacy.

With an emphasis on technical acumen and business management, Dunn’s role is instrumental in guiding the FPA towards new heights in fire protection, resilience, and safety standards.

In a landscape where fire safety remains a critical concern, the expertise and leadership Dunn brings could catalyse vital progress in building safety measures and regulatory frameworks.

FPA develops new assessment method for fire safety of external cladding

by Associations and OrganisationsConstructionFeatured News

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has introduced a new fire test and assessment method for external cladding systems named RISC 501.

This method comes in response to the rising incidences of large cladding system fires since 1990 and aims to enhance the resilience and safety of buildings by addressing certain limitations found in the current compliance routes.

Evaluating external cladding fire performance

RISC 501 evaluates the fire safety performance of non-loadbearing external cladding systems by implementing more stringent construction and performance criteria.

The method aims to exceed the basic life safety standards and offers a more accurate representation of real building conditions, emphasizing the importance of preventing the vertical spread of fire.

This new method can be used alongside BS 8414 or as a standalone assessment to confer compliance and offer increased protection for both life safety and property.

George Edwardes, Technical Director of the FPA, shed light on the development of this new method: “There have been concerns around large scale cladding testing ever since its inception in the UK.

“Conducting a thorough research project from an insurer’s perspective identified the areas that need improving and resulted in the development of a robust test method that reflects the built environment; a method that is appropriate for not just the minimum life safety requirement, but also for property protection.

“I look forward to working with industry to conduct RISC 501 testing, which will help ensure people have homes to return to after the unfortunate event of a fire.

“The FPA is continuously seeking ways to improve building resilience and we actively welcome collaboration for future research.”

RISC 501 testing available for cladding systems

The RISC 501 testing method sets out a range of rigorous criteria for assessing cladding systems.

These include stricter construction and temperature conditions, mechanical performance, gas sampling for smoke toxicity, and material fingerprinting.

It also stipulates that all test results should be published, enhancing transparency and accountability in cladding system safety.

Chris Miles, Commercial Director at the FPA, supports the new method with confidence: “RISC 501 offers significant improvements when compared with the current performance-based route to compliance.

“It also enables a route for stronger third party product and system certification, for which there is great need in the UK at present.

“We are pleased to now have test methodology available to support industry in evidencing robustness for the fire safety of cladding systems which is now more important than ever.”

The FPA is promoting understanding of RISC 501 through a webinar scheduled for 22 November, featuring George Edwardes.

Additionally, the latest episode of the FPA’s Assembly Point podcast includes a detailed discussion on RISC 501, featuring George Edwardes and Andy Miller of Allianz.

IFSJ Comment

The development of RISC 501 by the FPA marks a pivotal advance in the field of fire safety for external cladding systems.

With the complexities involved in cladding fires and the potential they have to escalate quickly, a comprehensive assessment method like RISC 501 could revolutionise the industry standards for cladding safety.

It represents a much-needed shift towards greater accountability and transparency in fire safety testing, a change that resonates with the insurance sector’s push for more rigorous safeguards.

By incorporating detailed parameters for testing and public reporting, RISC 501 ensures that the results reflect real-world building scenarios, which is essential for informed decision-making in building and property insurance, as well as for public safety.