Sprinkler upgrades schedule set in Manitoba health facilities regulations update

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProjects

Sprinkler upgrades milestones set in updated regulations

Updated fire safety regulations in Manitoba have been amended to align with a phased construction schedule for retrofitting health-care facilities with sprinkler systems.

The Manitoba government announced the change through Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara.

Asagwara said: “In 2020, the previous government changed the completion target without updating regulations or providing clear public communication,

“When we formed government in 2023 and became aware of that gap, we focused on protecting residents, supporting front-line workers and ensuring strong fire safety measures were in place at every site.

“Our government worked with health facilities and local fire officials to confirm interim protections while moving projects into active construction.”

Construction schedule and compliance dates across 194 facilities

The sprinkler installation requirement was established in legislation in 2015 for personal care homes, hospitals and health-care facilities, with a system-wide completion target of Jan. 1, 2026.

A $286 million fire and life-safety initiative fund was created in 2020 to support the work, with the regulatory framework not updated at that time to reflect the revised construction schedule.

The requirement for sprinkler installation remains unchanged, with the updated regulations setting milestones as work continues at hospitals, personal care homes and health centres.

The updated framework applies to 194 active health-care facilities, with work phased to keep sites fully operational during construction.

Site-specific compliance schedules are based on the scope of work required.

Construction activity has accelerated since 2023.

The Manitoba government said $73 million has been invested in the fire and life-safety initiative to date, with approximately $2 million spent prior to fall 2023 and more than $71 million invested since then to move projects into active construction.

A total of 117 hospitals, personal care homes and health centres are reported to have full sprinkler coverage.

An additional 41 sites are expected to reach compliance by the end of the 2026 to 27 fiscal year, bringing the total to 158 of 194 facilities completed.

The remaining 36 sites are scheduled for completion by Dec. 31, 2028.

Facilities awaiting upgrades are required to maintain enhanced interim fire safety measures including regular inspections, staff training, response planning and ongoing co-ordination with local fire services.

The updated regulations align legal requirements with the current phased construction schedule while sprinkler installation work continues across the province.

Non-combustible panels market expands amid global fire safety rules

by Featured NewsPassiveResearchSafety

Fire safety regulations driving demand for panels

According to ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global non-combustible panels market is valued at USD 10 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 17.2 billion by 2032.

The projected growth is attributed to tighter fire safety regulations and increasing requirements for fire-resistant materials in high-rise, residential, commercial, and public infrastructure construction.

The market includes materials such as fibre cement boards, aluminium panels with mineral cores, and ceramic-based cladding, which manufacturers say are used to meet stricter compliance standards for fire performance in façade and partition applications.

ResearchAndMarkets.com reported that building codes in several countries have been updated to ban combustible materials on high-rise and public sector buildings, prompting retrofit programmes and greater product innovation.

Fire safety standards such as EN 13501-1 A1 and A2 ratings are driving design requirements, particularly in regions with recent fire incident investigations.

Product development and manufacturer responses

Manufacturers are introducing new materials and product lines to respond to evolving requirements and cost-efficiency concerns.

According to the report, James Hardie has launched advanced fibre cement panels aimed at external façade safety, while Fairview has expanded its Vitracore and Vitrabond ranges to include non-combustible aluminium and mineral core options.

Alucobond has introduced A2-rated aluminium panels designed for architectural applications, targeting both new build and retrofit projects.

The report said companies are also focusing on panels that balance fire performance with durability, weather resistance, and installation efficiency.

Options with varied textures, colours, and weight reductions are being developed to appeal to architects and meet installation requirements without compromising structural support.

Market growth and regional differences

ResearchAndMarkets.com reported that North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are the largest regional markets for non-combustible panels.

Growth is particularly strong in countries where governments have implemented national retrofitting programmes or set mandatory material requirements for high-rise and public buildings.

In the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of the European Union, regulations now mandate the removal and replacement of combustible aluminium composite materials with tested non-combustible alternatives.

Retrofitting demand is also growing in countries including Canada and the United States, where local building authorities are updating safety standards.

Emerging markets are showing slower uptake due to cost and availability challenges, the report stated.

Challenges and barriers to adoption

Despite market expansion, ResearchAndMarkets.com identified several ongoing barriers to widespread use.

Non-combustible panels typically have higher material and installation costs compared to traditional options such as polyethylene-core aluminium composite panels.

Weight is another issue, with some products requiring reinforced structural support or complex installation processes, particularly for existing buildings not designed for heavier cladding systems.

The report also noted that the market is fragmented, with a variety of competing materials and standards across countries, creating inconsistencies in adoption.

Fluctuations in raw material supply chains and rising inflation have further impacted pricing and procurement.

Trends in safety, design, and compliance

The report found that most current innovations are focused on improving compliance with safety certifications while maintaining design flexibility.

Manufacturers are developing lighter alternatives with the same or higher fire classification performance to reduce installation times and structural requirements.

The report stated that companies are also adding weatherproofing and impact resistance features in response to increasing demand for multi-performance materials.

Digital modelling and pre-certification tools are being used to support compliance from the design stage, reducing risks during inspections and construction.

According to ResearchAndMarkets.com, increased awareness of fire safety risks is driving architects and developers to prioritise tested and certified cladding systems across all building types.

Non-combustible panels market expands amid global fire safety rules: Summary

The global non-combustible panels market is projected to grow from USD 10 billion in 2024 to USD 17.2 billion by 2032.

This growth is attributed to updated fire safety regulations across multiple regions.

The report is published by ResearchAndMarkets.com.

Products include fibre cement, aluminium mineral core, and ceramic panels.

James Hardie, Fairview, and Alucobond have all released new panel lines.

EN 13501-1 A1 and A2 ratings are key compliance benchmarks.

North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are the leading regional markets.

High costs and installation needs remain key barriers.

Retrofitting drives demand in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.

Manufacturers are developing lightweight panels with added durability.

Stakeholders are using modelling tools to streamline fire safety design.

The report covers projections through to 2034, with market segmentation and company profiles.

Defence Fire Safety Regulations receive update

by Featured NewsTraining

Introduction of structural firefighting regulations

The Defence Fire Safety Regulations (DSA02) have been revised to provide enhanced guidance for risk owners, Commanding Officers, heads of establishment, and fire service providers.

This development in the defence sector aims to ensure these entities are capable of meeting rigorous requirements in structural firefighting.

Key features of the DSA02 DFSR

The DSA02 DFSR, Defence Structural Fire Fighting Regulations, mirror the layout of the Defence Aerodrome Rescue & Fire Fighting (ARFF) Regulations.

This alignment is part of a broader effort to streamline fire safety measures across various defence sectors.

The regulations offer detailed guidance on fire prevention, protection, and response assessments, and specify the requirements for Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) in terms of emergency preparedness, resilience, vehicles, equipment, personnel, and media.

Training and compliance under new regulations

The regulations also put emphasis on identifying training requirements for FRS personnel.

This move is in accordance with the Defence Safety Authority (DSA) Charter, which empowers the Defence Fire Safety Regulator (DFSR) to maintain and assure compliance with Defence Regulations.

It also promotes an engaged health, safety, and environmental protection culture.

Historical context and significance

Historically, the defence sector lacked comprehensive guidance relating to structural firefighting.

The introduction of these regulations marks a significant step in addressing this gap.

They not only provide clear direction but also establish a robust framework for fire safety in defence settings.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the DSA02 DFSR regulations is a critical development in the defence sector, reflecting a commitment to enhancing fire safety standards and operational readiness.

By providing clear, comprehensive guidance and establishing stringent requirements for training and resources, these regulations underscore the importance of a proactive and well-equipped approach to fire safety in defence environments.

About DSA02

The Defence Fire Safety Regulations (DSA02), including the Defence Structural Fire Fighting Regulations, are part of the Defence Safety Authority’s ongoing efforts to enhance fire safety in defence settings.

These regulations are designed to provide clear guidance and stringent requirements to ensure the safety and preparedness of defence personnel and facilities.

Find out more about DSA02 here.

Kyrgyzstan enforces stricter penalties for fire safety violations

by Featured NewsSafety

In a significant move to enhance fire safety, Kyrgyzstan has recently amended its Code of Offenses, intensifying penalties for violations of fire safety rules.

This decision, initiated by the Ministry of Emergency Situations, arrives against a backdrop of increasing fires and economic losses due to fire incidents in the nation.

Rising fire incidents and economic losses

Since 2013, Kyrgyzstan has witnessed a concerning uptick in the number and severity of fire incidents.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations reported that in 2022 alone, the damage from fires escalated to over 3.2 billion soms.

This increase is partially attributed to more frequent fires in forests, mountains, and open areas, often caused by the burning of garbage and dry grass.

Such fires not only lead to economic damage but also decrease the protection of settlements.

Legislative changes and their impacts

A key factor in these escalating fire incidents is the legislative decisions taken in the past.

Notably, in April 2012, state fire supervision responsibilities were transferred to the State Inspectorate for Environmental and Technical Safety.

However, due to inadequate staffing, this service struggled to respond promptly and prevent fires effectively.

Furthermore, there was a reduction in the number of administrative misdemeanours that held individuals accountable for non-compliance with fire safety requirements.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations highlighted that existing measures, including penalties, were insufficient in influencing citizens’ adherence to fire safety norms, leading to a sense of impunity and repeated violations.

New penalties and expanded oversight

The revised legislation now includes more stringent penalties for various fire safety violations.

For instance, violations resulting in a fire that threatens life and health will incur fines of 13,000 soms for individuals, 23,000 soms for officials, and 75,000 soms for legal entities.

Additionally, the law addresses specific causes of fires, like the misuse of electrical equipment and careless smoking, with corresponding fines.

The bill also expands the list of articles under which the state body in fire safety can impose penalties, aiming to strengthen enforcement and compliance.

Broader fire safety initiatives

These legislative changes are part of broader efforts in Kyrgyzstan to enhance fire safety.

In December 2022, the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic No.

118 “On Fire Safety” was adopted, replacing the previous law from 1996.

This new law focuses on protecting citizens and property from fires through a comprehensive set of legal, organisational, economic, social, scientific, technical, and educational measures.

Additionally, there’s an ongoing project under the Concept of comprehensive protection of the population and territories from emergency situations for 2018-2030.

This project aims to modernise fire protection facilities and improve the regulatory framework of the Fire Service, with particular attention to vulnerable groups like women and children.

IFSJ Comment

The recent legislative amendments in Kyrgyzstan represent a critical step towards enhancing fire safety and reducing the risk of fire-related incidents.

By introducing stricter penalties and expanding the scope of enforceable fire safety regulations, the Kyrgyz government demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the escalating fire incidents and related economic losses.

These efforts are crucial for safeguarding the lives, health, and property of citizens and align with broader initiatives to strengthen the nation’s overall emergency response and disaster preparedness capabilities.

The focus on including vulnerable groups in these safety measures further underscores the inclusive and comprehensive nature of Kyrgyzstan’s fire safety strategy.

Fifteen buildings in Jeypore in violation of fire safety regulations

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsIndustry Sectors

Following Odisha Fire Service directing all units to carry out a fire safety audit in all important state establishments by 21 May in the wake of a fire at a four-storey commercial building in Dehli, 15 out of 40 buildings that were scanned were found to be violating the safety norms.

The Jeypore unit of Odisha Fire Services on Wednesday slapped notices on 15 government and private buildings including Koraput Medical College and Hospital (MCH) for violating the prescribed norms as it lacks minimum safety measures.

All 15 buildings in violation were served notices to put in place measures and requisite equipment for fire prevention, safety and emergency evacuation in case of emergency.

Kunu Nayak, a fire officer from Jeypore, said the team will again inspect fire safety norms in other parts of the district: “Our staff checked all major government and private establishments and authorities concerned have been asked to maintain the norms for public safety.”

Chairman of Koraput rice millers’ association Girija Sankar Dash, said: “Every building used by public should maintain basic resources to ensure prevention and fire safety measures so that there’s minimum loss to life and property. This is needed not just in urban areas but in remote tribal pockets as well.

“The recent drive by the fire services unit here is a welcome move and should be carried out on regular basis to ensure strict adherence to the rules,” commented social activist Chitaranjan Satpathy.

Allegion UK: keeping compliant with fire safety regulations

by Passive

Ensuring compliance when it comes to fire safety isn’t just limited to checking a fire door and its operation. Of course, this is an integral cog in the wider fire safety clockwork, but there’s much more to it than just that, Allegion UK’s Karen Trigg explains.

Keeping staff or employees in-the-know about any evacuation plans could help to save lives – this isn’t just making sure everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire, it’s about educating employees about all workplace fire safety features, like how to use fire extinguishers and ensuring escape routes are kept clear of any potential fire hazards.

Here are some of the most common fire safety threats and what you can do to avoid them.

Fire Doors

Ensuring fire doors are properly maintained will help to contain a fire and buy precious time during an emergency evacuation. Checking a fire door is operating correctly is quick and easy, so there’s no excuse for letting standards split.

Not only are there simple checks to follow with the fire door itself, but employees should also be trained on the improper use of fire doors.

This means steering clear of wedging fire doors open. Not only does this pose legal threats, but it also renders fire doors obsolete. After-all, their primary use is to close in the event of a fire to reduce the spread of fire and smoke.

What’s more, fire doors are often placed in areas that will protect lives and property, such as doors accessing exit corridors or escape routes, so it’s imperative that they aid free passage.

Correctly installed hardware

Potential fire hazards can be avoided and controlled if the door hardware is installed correctly from the outset. This starts with a building’s installer or fitter. When installing door hardware, it’s important to ensure that you’re using either an approved or accredited installer.

The person fitting should be fully trained, as hardware that is installed incorrectly will not function properly, and can be more susceptible to damage and accidents.

Appropriate staff training

According to comparethemarket.com, 54% of people in the UK wouldn’t know what to do in the event of a fire.

History reveals that if the appropriate fire safety plans aren’t in place during a fire, businesses could be faced with severe repercussions. For starters, they’ll have to deal with a large fine on account of breaching regulations.

Then comes the added weight of a fractured reputation, followed by the burden of rebuilding a damaged property and the additional costs that come with that, too.

Not to mention that taking simple measures could be the difference between life and death – the sort of responsibility business owners wouldn’t want hanging over them.

All in all; it’s safe to say that implementing the basic necessary precautions is something every business should be doing. This starts with ensuring staff and employees are up-to-date with fire safety training.

Not only will they be clear of an evacuation plan, but it will also tune employees into how to spot fire doors and door hardware that aren’t working properly. For example, if a member of staff comes across a faulty door closer, they’ll know to report the finding to the appropriate person to get it sorted.

Keeping compliant with Fire Safety Regulations is a requirement for ensuring the utmost safety in any kind of environment. Don’t risk compliance when it comes to fire safety. Rest assured, peace of mind is better than leaving it to guess-work.

www.allegion.co.uk