Ignite Nov 2023

GNITE

November 2023

Issue 006

UPDATES ON THE ASFP

See pages 30 - 31

THE 2023 SPECIAL See pages 18 - 23 for everything relating to the ASFP Awards

WWW.ASFP.ORG.UK

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CONTENTS ASFP

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CHAIR EDITORIAL MD EDITORIAL WHAT'S NEW? INTRODUCING NADINE WHY BECOME AN ASFP MEMBER? STUDENT MEMBERSHIP TRAINING MATTERS MEMBER SPOTLIGHT TEAM PROFILE DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

02 03 04 - 05 06 08 09 10 12 - 14 14 16 - 17

TODAY'S EVENT THE FINALISTS EVENT PARTNERS

18 - 19 20 - 21 22 - 23

16 THE AWARDS 18 34

TECHNICAL

CREATING A BETTER TOMORROW | NULLIFIRE 24 A LETTER FROM IRELAND 25 ESTIMATION OF FIRE PROTECTION FOR STRUCTURAL STEELWORK 26 - 28 COMPETENCE PATHWAY 30 - 31 THE MARK OF QUALITY 32 ASFP FIRESTOPPING FOR INSTALLERS 33 PUBLICATIONS UPDATE 34 CURTAIN WALL PROTECTION 36 THE ROAD TO SAFER BUILDINGS 37 IMPROVING BUILDING FIRE SAFETY 38 BUILDING SAFETY ACT - WHAT'S NEXT? 40 - 41

Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication, and the statements contained herein are believed to be correct, the publishers and the promoters will not accept responsibility for any inaccuracies.

ASFP makes no recommendation in respects to any of the advertisments, and no recommendation may be implied by way of the presence of their advertisements.

Association for Specialist Fire Protection Spectra House, Westwood Way, Westwood Business Park, Coventry, CV4 8HS Tel: +44 (0) 247 693 5412 Email: info@asfp.org.uk

Visit the ASFP website: www.asfp.org.uk Be sure to follow us on Linkedin at: @ASFP Subscribe to our YouTube channel: ASFPTV

CHAIR

EDITORIAL

By Clive Miles

ASFP Chair Clive Miles offers a a glimpse into the ASFP Awards, reviews the past year and looks forward to 2024

As an Association we have also experienced an unprecedented amount of change this year. A new Managing Director in Mike Ward; and the appointment of Nadine Saxon as a new Operations Director as well as the expansion of our technical team with the appointment of Stuart Southall as Technical Officer and Dr Andrew Taylor moving into the new Head of Technical role. In addition, the purchase of our own premises will facilitate the ambitious plans we have for the future.

Looking ahead to the new year, I am confident that the coming year holds immense promise for the industry.

We anticipate a continued focus on pioneering advancements, rigorous standards, and comprehensive training 02

I am delighted to share that we have received an exceptional and diverse array of entries for the awards categories, reflecting the high calibre and innovation prevalent within the industry. The remarkable quality of submissions underscores the collective commitment to excellence and the industry's unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of passive fire protection.

CHAIR EDITORIAL

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The 2023 ASFP Awards If you are reading this live at the 2023 ASFP Awards, welcome! I am brimming with excitement and anticipation. This year, we are thrilled to announce the highest-ever attendance at the ASFP Awards Dinner, with over 400 esteemed members set to join us in celebrating the industry's remarkable achievements. It is truly an honour to witness the collective enthusiasm and dedication that continues to drive our industry forward.

Finally, good luck to all the Awards finalists, and I wish all our members a merry Christmas and successful 2024.

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I passionately believe that our collective dedication to continuous learning, and proactive adaptation will be instrumental in shaping the future of passive fire protection. As we prepare to usher in the new year, I encourage all stakeholders to remain agile and responsive, attuned to the evolving needs of the industry and our clients. Together, we will continue to elevate standards and champion a culture of excellence that underpins the fundamental principles of safety and sustainability.

In the spirit of celebration and camaraderie, the ASFP Awards will serve as a testament to the remarkable achievements and resilience of our industry. As we come together to commemorate our accomplishments, we reaffirm our shared vision for a future where passive fire protection stands as a cornerstone of a secure and thriving built environment. I am honoured to be a part of this journey, and I look forward to an inspiring and transformative year ahead.

mo re o

Reflecting on the past year, I am struggling to remember a year where we as an industry have experienced so much change, which will have a massive influence on us all. The Building Safety Act; the introduction of a requirement for two staircases in residential buildings; BS 476 being replaced with EN 1634; and the increased prevalence of electrical vehicles with the risk of them catching fire. The ASFP has played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, equipping professionals with the necessary tools and resources to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape effectively.

Despite the unprecedented challenges we face and are likely to face, we have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to safety and excellence.

initiatives. The ASFP remains dedicated to driving progress and ensuring that our industry remains at the forefront of safety, reliability, and compliance. With a steadfast commitment to knowledge exchange and industry best practices, we are ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

WEL CO Read

For me, the ASFP Awards not only signal the end of the year, but the start of the Christmas festivities.

It is a wonderful time to reflect on the year, take stock of what we have achieved and look forward to the new year and the challenges that it will no doubt bring.

MD

EDITORIAL

By Mike Ward

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward discusses industry collaboration and ASFP's Vision for the new year Recently I watched a podcast on the importance of belonging, a reasonably mundane proposition I thought, and so it was to a large degree. But it did get me thinking, why do certain people have a desire to belong?

It could be supporting a football, rugby or other spots club, being part of a social club, book club, or anything that one way or another is a group of people who share a common interest.

The ‘whys’ continued, conscious of the current challenges of siloing across our industry and what could be done to improve the status quo, then I came across an old episode of a David

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Attenborough programme, the one about ants, yes ants!

Safety (WIFS), Fire Protection Association (FPA), Federation of Interior Specialists (FIS) and, most recently, conversations with Fire Safety Building Regulations Group.

D AR W

It described how although ant colonies are made up of millions of individual ants they act as one organism for the benefit of all. They are Passive fire cuts through many of the professions dependent on one another for the overall good, and trades within design and construction, and in an ant’s case, the benefit being survival. just like our friends, ASFP is determined to create an environment that benefits everyone.

Now, I am not comparing supporting a football club to an ant colony, or am I? Because the fact The latter part of this year you will have seen is members of any collective are dependent ASFP release its Competence Framework, and interdependent on one another as proven thus allowing (firestopping installers in the

by Mr Attenborough. Not only that, and more first instance) to identify what constitutes importantly, the individuals have a common competence in the eyes of the Association, collective vision and goal. and how company employees can achieve competence and become registered. Next year We can learn a lot from nature... How can such the ASFP will also launch its Training Recognition a tiny creature organise itself for their greater service which finds, audits and lists training good, while humans as part of the biggest courses and provision by third parties, and finally single employment sector in the UK can’t?

ASFP members will be able to achieve the ASFP Mark, which identifies that the ASFP member It comes down to common mutual benefit. In company has achieved all the requirements set the case of the design and construction sector, out by the ASFP to mark them as competent. each stakeholder may have little concern in the interests of others, since there’s little to no The ASFP’s long term aim is for all professions net benefit to them. Therefore, no mutual and trades across the spectrum of design, consideration and appreciation is held. procurement, construction, approval and occupation to be able to access the framework Over the last six years there’s been to understand what they need to do in order to a lot said and some done about achieve competency in passive fire protection improving the sector’s behaviours, and record their achievements. but we can’t achieve this without mutual understanding. These We shall continue to collaborate with all understandings have to come stakeholders to ensure there’s mutual benefit from collectives in the first for everyone, including those who occupy the instance, not the whole at first buildings which we as an industry design and but smaller groups. As the construct.

ASFP and its members see it, the said groups have to be Beyond this, the ASFP will continue to support the associations and bodies and steer the larger organisations we are that represent the different involved with such as BuildUK, CPA, BSI, CEN and sectors of our industry. of course all facets of Government.

Being an individual member (company) of the For the last few years the ASFP has to be on the basis of improving the ASFP has been collaborating environment for all which in turn improves the with other associations same for that member, it has and organisations to create to be a collective of mutual stronger lines of benefit benefit. equity. Organisations such as the Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG), Women in Fire

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MD EDITORIAL

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WHAT'S NEW?

ASFP Managing Director, Mike Ward, walks us through the last couple of months with all the changes the ASFP has gone through from new staff, to new endeavours, and progress with the new ASFP building Changes at Senior Management Level This is the last time I will be writing this operations editorial; as the ASFP has appointed a new Operations Director, who will be keeping you informed on the operational development of the ASFP. The new Operations Director role in part replaces the Business Manager role I held prior to becoming MD. However, the position will now be significantly more than that due to the increasing size of the ASFP team, and the continued growth of initiatives the Association is supporting and developing, as well as the ASFP’s planned move to its new headquarters and academy in December this year.

process of delivery or have been delivered.

The new Firestopping course was launched on the ASFP’s AREA9 platform back in August and has already seen a good number of learners participate. The next new course to be launched will be the introduction course for designers, which is currently in development by the team. The ASFP Virtual Reality (VR) training trailer made its first multi-site outing to CCF builders’ merchants to support their staff learning and growth initiative. There’s further demand for the trailer and to support this we’re developing yet further content for learners to experience.

I’m delighted to welcome Nadine Saxon as our new Operations Director. Nadine may be familiar to some of you as she joins us from the British Coatings Federation (BCF) where she has been office manager for the last five years. As many of you will know, ASFP, has called these offices home for the last three years. Nadine was instrumental in the BCF’s move to Coventry and has created the culture which has supported the growth of BCF during her time there.

Whilst on the subject of learning and development, the new ASFP Competence Pathway will see it's first element released this year; that being the Competence Framework.

Keep an eye out for the ASFP weekly newsletter and the website for more information on this, the largest tactical initiative the ASFP has ever delivered, as it takes shape over the coming year. You can read more about the Framework on Pages 30 - 31.

Similarly, Nadine has played a part in the ASFP’s recent history and growth. She was the first person I met when visiting potential secretariat / management services providers back in 2020.

It was Nadine that presented a strategy on how BCF could support ASFP, and she supported the recruitment and development of the ASFP’s office-based team that we have today. Nadine has been part of the ASFP in her role with the BCF for the past three years and has earnt the respect of members, Council and the ASFP team over that time. She will have a place on the Executive Board as a legal entity of the Association, as well as a place on the ASFP Council which meets every quarter. We think she is perfectly placed to support the Association’s growth over the coming years, and I for one look forward to being part of that journey with her. I ask everyone to welcome Nadine to the team and wish her well for the future.

Current Initiatives I am pleased to say the initiatives I mentioned in the last issue of Ignite are either in the 04

Membership continues to grow across all member types, Contractor membership is still our largest growth sector, representing circa 40% of our membership.

Other areas of success include free Student / Apprentice membership, and Tier 1 Main Contractors.

In support of Tier 1 Contractors, ASFP has finalised a formal structure and procedures with the Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG) on how the ‘Knowledge Shares’ they produced can be resolved. Said resolution could culminate in revised and/or new training tailored for architects, engineers or procurement professionals. It could also result in new ASFP Technical Guidance Documents (TGDs) or Advisory Notes (AN), or even full ASFP Colour Books supported by a new Technical Group (TG). On a more robust scale, it could result in new testing and certification, or the formation of a relevant PAS or BSI standard and committee. Whatever the outcomes, ASFP has the resource and mechanisms to deliver resolution to the problems PFKG have identified.

WHAT'S NEW?

In the past few months, two new Technical Groups have been formed, TG8 for fire-rated glazing and TG9 for digital data, as part of the Golden Thread. Both groups will deliver new best practice ASFP Colour books in support of the relevant industry sector and wider stakeholders.

Events and Media With the ASFP Awards bringing the curtain down on yet another year of events, I think we can safely say that we have had another successful engagement programme. Both the Leeds and Stirling technical seminars were very well attended, as was our last ASFP event at the current Aviva Insurance building in the City of London.

In terms of both member engagement and intercompany team building, the ASFP Regatta had to be the event of the year, with 14 boats, beautiful weather on the Solent and great company.

A mix of members and wider stakeholders took part, with everyone who attended saying they would come back next year. For the 2024 Regatta, boats and places have already gone on sale; check the ASFP website for details.

ASFP was present at all the major exhibitions in 2023, including the Fire Safety Event, Firex, UK Construction Week and London Build. We feel this is a significant part of our calendar and vitally important for getting our message of best practice out to individuals and organisations that may not be overly familiar with the Association and its key objectives.

Our representation at these shows has been significantly boosted by the presence of the ASFP Learning Experience trailer, an asset which we will develop yet further in 2024. I would like to take the time to recognise and thank the organisers of the shows for their ongoing trust and support of the ASFP. ASFP IGNITE

There will be some new events announced for 2024, including Industry Leaders events in support of the PFKG, new regional seminars, plus a follow-up event in Scotland due to the success of this year’s proceedings.

the comings and goings at Council. I know I speak on behalf of all of the ASFP team, Council and the wider membership in saying thank you for your service Clive, you are the standardbearer for what being an ASFP member is all about.

ASFP’s marketing and social media position continues to excel in every aspect, to the point that the Association earns a small fee from YouTube, to date about £3.57, but a fee all the same.

ASFP’s LinkedIn followers have reached nearly 20,000, with the popularity of the Sparking Interest Podcast being recognised by the patronage of Sir Ken Knight, Paul Morell and Chandru Dissanayeke of the Department for Levelling Up, Communities and Housing (DLUCH), plus senior people from CIPP and the Fire Sector Federation coming soon.

We intend to greatly increase news output from our social media and marketing platforms in 2024, with more original copy, editorials and news items featuring the important topics that we know are of value to our members and those up and down the supply chain. ASFPTV will continue to be the mainstay of the Association’s output and next year promises to provide more in-depth programmes that offer a real insight into the world of passive fire protection.

The ASFP Team As previously mentioned, Nadine Saxon joins the team as Operations Director. But that’s not the end of the people story, Georgina Fennell has returned from maternity leave. To say we are more than glad to have her back would be the greatest understatement in this column.

Just as George came back, Sona Chandi left for her maternity ASFP IGNITE

leave, and not long after gave birth to a beautiful baby boy called Arvin. Both mother and baby are doing well, and we are delighted to welcome yet another addition to the ASFP family.

Rebecca Barber joins the team as Sona’s replacement for the foreseeable future.

Rebecca is ATT Level 3 qualified and comes to us with a portfolio of knowledge and experience.

Hayley Hillyard’s contract as Project Manager for delivery of the new ASFP office will come to an end in November upon completion and handover of the building.

However, you may not be aware that Hayley is a qualified chartered accountant and, whilst working on the new office delivery, has also been evolving our accounts and financial systems as we grow. Hayley will stay on beyond the delivery of the office, for circa one day per week to further support and develop ASFP’s financial management.

And finally, it’s goodnight from him. We have mixed emotions in reporting that Clive Atkins of Fire Protection Coatings Limited will be stepping down from Council. Clive has spent nearly 30 years supporting the ASFP with his knowledge and guidance. I say mixed emotions because we will miss his knowledge and experience, and his kind but authoritative approach at Council, but happy in the knowledge that Clive has given more than enough service to the Association and deserves a rest from WHAT'S NEW?

Office Move As I write this column, the contractors are on site are stripping out the old internal fittings and marking out the new. The first fix for mechanical and electrical fittings is due on site and the new doors and windows are going in soon after.

Planning and design has taken longer than we wanted, but we had to balance costs versus time, in that we wanted to spend additional time honing the design from a value engineering point of view, while maintaining the vision that the building is the members’ home. We wanted to design in as much useability and flexibility as possible. The extra time we took has saved thousands and kept us on budget and that can only be a good thing from a reserves point of view.

Early in 2024, ASFP will publish the date and details of the official opening of the Association’s offices and academy, we really hope that as many members as possible can make this historic event.

Finally, I would like to thank CLM Fireproofing for carrying out some post strip-out fire boarding works that had not been spotted during the original survey. With only a few days’ notice there was a team on site and no days were lost by the fit out contractor.

PIONEERING PROGRESS: LEADING THE CHARGE FOR INDUSTRY ADVANCEMENT The ASFP’s new Operations Director Nadine Saxon outlines her aspirations for the Association It is with great pleasure and determination that I assume the role of Operations Director at the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP). As we embark on this collective journey, my foremost commitment is to drive strategic initiatives that will elevate our industry standards and enhance the services we offer to our valued members.

While my expertise lies predominantly in strategic leadership and fostering collaborative teams, my dedication to the ASFP's mission remains unwavering. I firmly believe that through focused strategic planning and the cultivation of a robust team environment, we can pave the way for significant industry advancements, ensuring the ASFP remains at the forefront of our field.

Acknowledging the pivotal role played by each member, I am resolutely committed to fostering an atmosphere of collaboration, innovation, and knowledgesharing within our Association.

By nurturing strong relationships and partnerships, both within our membership and beyond, we will create a platform for shared growth, advancement, and the continual elevation of industry standards.

My primary focus will be to ensure that our team, armed with the necessary tools and resources, delivers a level of service that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our members. While my technical knowledge in passive fire protection may be limited, I am steadfast in my determination to assemble and lead a team of experts who embody the ASFP's values of excellence, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of progress.

Together, let us seize this opportunity to redefine the ASFP's role as a trailblazer in setting industry benchmarks and shaping the future of fire protection services. Through a strategic focus on team empowerment, collaborative leadership, and a commitment to excellence, I am confident that we will forge new paths and make lasting contributions to the growth and success of the ASFP. I am excited to embark on this journey with each of you and look forward to witnessing the collective impact of our endeavours as we steer the ASFP towards a future marked by unparalleled growth and unwavering commitment to excellence.

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INTRODUCING NADINE

ASFP IGNITE

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WHY JOIN

ASFP Marketing Manager Reece Goodman outlines the benefits of ASFP membership

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) stands as a beacon in the passive fire protection (PFP) sector, uniting manufacturers, contractors, testing bodies, and other industry stakeholders to advance standards and knowledge. The ASFP tirelessly works towards enhancing fire safety by promoting and guiding the implementation of critical PFP measures. Joining the ASFP offers numerous benefits, providing a pathway to growth and success within the industry. In this article, we present compelling reasons why becoming an ASFP member is a pivotal step for professionals in the fire protection sector.

I. EMBRACE THE POWER OF THE ASFP BRAND

ASFP membership instantly associates your company with the reputable ASFP brand. Displaying the ASFP logo not only creates a powerful link to ASFP values and best practices but also presents an opportunity to promote a joint brand that resonates with industry excellence and integrity.

II. ACCESS TO UNPARALLELED TECHNICAL SUPPORT

One of the core benefits of ASFP membership is access to extensive technical support. Members can tap into a wealth of knowledge through Technical Task Groups, an extensive library of technical guidance, advisory notes, best practice guides, and a range of videos available on ASFPTV. This access empowers members with the knowledge needed to excel in the industry.

III. OBTAIN GENEROUS DISCOUNTS ASFP membership grants access to discounted rates for a wide range of offerings, including world-leading training schemes for Passive Fire Protection (PFP), ASFP Colour Books, event tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and exhibiting opportunities at ASFP events. These discounts facilitate continuous learning and development while fostering growth in the sector.

IV. ELEVATE YOUR EXPERTISE THROUGH TRAINING

ASFP offers globally recognised training courses that equip candidates with the knowledge required to demonstrate competence. Members enjoy significant discounts on these courses, enhancing their skills and academic recognition within the industry. The ASFP Foundation courses, available online and in multiple languages, offer flexibility and convenience in learning.

VI. JOIN A VIBRANT NETWORKING COMMUNITY

ASFP offers members access to a rapidly growing network and community of professionals in the passive fire protection sector.

Opportunities for networking and engagement abound, from Task Groups and general meetings to exhibitions, seminars, webinars, social media discussions, and member noticeboards.

VII. UNLEASH MARKETING POTENTIAL

ASFP membership offers a platform for members to align their promotional activities with the ASFP's marketing support.

This collaboration enables members to reach a broader, industry-specific audience, furthering their reach and influence within the sector.

V. MAXIMISE VISIBILITY THROUGH ASFP PLATFORMS

VIII. INFLUENCE INDUSTRY STANDARDS AND LEGISLATION

ASFP members have the opportunity to participate in Technical Task Groups, contributing to the development of industry best practice guidance. Through representation in industry bodies and authoritative technical publications, ASFP members can influence legislative and standards changes, impacting the fire protection industry positively.

Becoming a member of the ASFP is a gateway to a world of opportunities. From technical expertise and networking to branding and marketing support, ASFP membership provides the resources and platform to elevate your standing in the passive fire protection industry. Join ASFP today and be a part of a community that strives for excellence and safety in built-in fire protection. For more information on ASFP membership and the benefits it offers, visit our website at www.asfp.org.uk.

By becoming a member, you can showcase your company profile on the ASFP website, reaching thousands of industry professionals seeking guidance and information. The ASFP Member Hub further extends visibility, providing access to various business support services, including membership of influential industry organisations.

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WHY BECOME AN ASFP MEMBER?

ASFP IGNITE

FREE INTRODUCTION TO PFP COURSE DISCOUNTS FOR NETWORKING SEMINARS FREE ACCESS TO TECHNICAL DOCUMENTS AND BOOKS

DISCOUNTS ON DELL PRODUCTS

NETWORK. EDUCATE. ACHIEVE.

ASFP Marketing Manager Reece Goodman dives into student membership and why students and apprentices who are studying towards a career in Passive Fire Protection (PFP) should consider joining the ASFP As the world of construction grows and the changes brought forward by the Building Safety Act create more work in the industry, there has never been a better time to work with the PFP sector.

Working with members and universities offering fire-related courses, ASFP will help provide a path for students into our world through FREE membership available only to students and apprentices.

As a student member of the ASFP you will be at the forefront of the industry with a huge amount of access that will prepare you for your future in PFP such as a first look at job vacancies in the industry that will help set you up after your studies. You will also be the first to hear news on the latest updates in legislation, receive free discounts on technical seminars with opportunities to network with many of the industry leaders, and access to free technical webinars.

You can see all of the benefits you can expect to recieve by becoming a student member of the ASFP listed on the left hand side of this page.

FREE TECHNICAL WEBINARS

FIND A JOB IN THE PFP INDUSTRY

All of this information will not only help you greatly with your studies, giving you a big step forward in understanding your course and the industry, but will also prepare you for a potential future career working for a Tier 1 Contractor, Manufacturer, Specialist Contractor, or Distributor.

For more information on student membership please visit our website at www.asfp.org.uk/page/Membership_Student, or scan the QR code.

QUICK ACCESS TO UPDATES IN LEGISLATION

DISCOUNTS ON CAR AND LIFE INSURANCE ASFP IGNITE

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP

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TRAINING

MATTERS

ASFP Training Officer Chris Sharman highlights growing demand for passive fire protection training from a varied range of companies and individuals The growing numbers attending ASFP Passive Fire Protection Foundation courses, both in the classroom and on-line, suggest increasing recognition that passive fire protection (PFP) training matters.

While many of our course attendees still come from within our membership, and particularly our core membership of specialist contractors and manufacturers, we are seeing the take-up from beyond these traditional sectors. We are also seeing growing demand from outside of what we would consider to be the traditional ‘construction industry’.

This was clearly evident at the recent IFE examinations at the Fire Service College, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire.

More than half of the candidates in the morning session were sitting the Level 2 PFP examination, while in the afternoon session, 75% of the examination candidates were taking the Level 3 PFP examination.

In the classroom environment, we are seeing an increase in companies sending individual team members on courses, as well as a large increase in the number of courses being run at client premises.

These organisations wish to expand the knowledge base across a larger number of team members than we can service in our open courses. In the last two years alone we have run in-house courses for companies, including: Rockwool, Optima/ OAG, Checkmate Fire, and Etex Group.

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As always it is very reassuring to see our members investing in the competence and careers of their staff, and we certainly look forward to continuing our support for these organisations going forward.

managers, technical support staff, fire engineering consultants, supply chain specialists and technical sales staff. We also see members of the fire and rescue service recognising the value of PFP.

In addition to these core members, we have also seen an uplift in bookings for in-house training from organisations in industry sectors outside our traditional membership. These companies recognise PFP as a necessary skill for those involved in building safety, from design and construction right through to the operation and management of occupied buildings.

The wide range of individuals and organisations taking the responsibility of upskilling their staff in PFP shows that the traditional view of it being ‘down to the firestoppers to sort that out’ is no longer the industry norm, and that the early engagement (and required knowledge) that the industry has been advocating for years is now becoming more commonplace.

Examples of some of these organisations include: Tilbury Douglas, Wilmott Dixon, Together Housing, and Jaguar Land Rover. Although these companies are not directly involved with the manufacture or installation of passive fire systems, they realise the importance of the correct installation of PFP and understand its impact on building safety. It is most gratifying to see these organisations investing in PFP, and in their knowledge and understanding of this important subject.

While we have a busy calendar for our open training courses, there is always capacity available for organisations wishing to schedule an in-house course for their own staff. We are always happy to discuss options with anyone looking to take up such courses, and to explore how we can tailor the course delivery to fit around your needs. Feel free to drop us a line using the website Ask the Experts link for training and we will be in touch at the earliest opportunity, because Training Matters.

Those attending courses have many and varied roles, including: installers of passive fire systems, supervisors, site managers, project managers, fire risk assessors, fire safety advisors and managers, building designers, maintenance operatives and

TRAINING MATTERS

For further information on the range of courses ASFP has to offer, or to join one of our scheduled classroom or online courses, visit: www.asfp.org.uk/page/ASFPTraining

ASFP IGNITE

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SPOTLIGHT

In 2023, Novus Property Solutions celebrates a decade of excellence, yet our heritage spans a remarkable 126 years.

As a family-owned national contractor, our specialisation lies in compliance, maintenance, and decarbonisation.

We operate with unwavering family values at our core, epitomising 'The Novus Way' that underscores every facet of our business.

With strategically located offices across Great Britain, Novus offers the best of both worlds - local expertise and national strength. Clients benefit from the agility of a local contractor and the reliability, reassurance, and reputation that a major national organisation brings.

Under our Novus Assure brand, we excel in installing passive fire protection products and are fully accredited by third-party installation accreditation partners Firas and BM Trada. We collaborate with leading fire protection product manufacturers such as FSi, Hilti, and Rockwool and hold Approved Contractor status for passive fire protection, a testament to our commitment to excellence.

Our highly skilled installation teams are well-versed in product application and installation for all passive fire protection works. Our management teams are equipped with IFE Level 3 and Level 2 qualifications in passive fire protection.

We offer a comprehensive range of passive fire protection services, including fire door inspections, maintenance, repairs, and replacements, fire-retardant coatings, and firestopping and penetration sealing. Notable clients include Whitbread Plc, Platform, Bupa, Midland Heart, Bromford, Aston University, the University of Worcester and more.

Our Birmingham Office houses a dedicated training facility for our staff and subcontractors, equipped with training walls and rigs designed for door installation.

As members of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), we stay updated with the latest industry standards related to passive fire protection, ensuring that we adhere to the correct legislation, thereby providing a higher standard of passive fire protection and fire safety advice within buildings.

Novus

URL: www.novussolutions.co.uk Phone: 01782 237249 Email: info@novussolutions.co.uk 12

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

ASFP IGNITE

FPCL

URL: fireprotectioncoatings.com Phone: 02476 422200 Email: darren@fpcl.co.uk

Fire Protection Coatings Limited (FPCL) provides high level protective coating systems for difficult and extreme fire and heat applications. We are experienced in both prototyping and testing, with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Having the skill and knowledge to apply these competencies to various substrates and components, the business continues to go from strength to strength.

FPCL originated as a buy-out from Nullifire in 2003, when former Director Clive Atkins decided to focus on hydrocarbon fire and specialist component protection, in particular, working on contracts in the defence, aerospace, transportation and petrochemical industries. With well-established third party test programmes, working with Lloyds Register and leading manufacturers, FPCL has become well- known for its solutions for many specialist application projects.

As Clive heads towards a well-deserved retirement, moving into a CEO role, his son Darren Atkins has taken on the role of Managing Director. Darren has been within the industry for over 15 years and was proud to be one of the first to pass the ASFP Level 3 Passive Fire Protection courses, introduced five years ago to improve the level of professionalism within the passive fire industry. Now a Technician member of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), he brings a wealth of knowledge to the industry.

this through the ASFP and supporting third party bodies and manufacturers. With the introduction of the Golden Thread it is vital we continue to ensure our industry provides the highest level of service and confidence in all areas of passive fire protection.

FPCL continues to expand and has a focus on recently highlighted areas of fire risk, including timber and battery fire protection. We continue to look at environmental impacts during project management and how we can use more sustainable and eco-friendly materials. Working with our key partners, we look forward to a bright future.

FPCL is proud to have been a member of the ASFP for over 20 years. We are certicated to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, the world’s most recognised quality and environmental management standards.

In 2010, the FPCL group expanded to include Fire Protection Development Limited (FPDL) which provides a dedicated distribution option for customers in the fire protection industry.

Working with third party approved applicators and products has allowed FPDL to increase its customer base while providing avenues of support and expertise to customers. This includes encouraging all applicators involved in passive fire protection to have third party approval, as well as providing the information and routes to achieve

Welcome to our newest members

We also welcome SF Plastering Lrl Limited LLK Construction

ASFP IGNITE

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

13

JOINING

THE ASFP TEAM ASFP Technical Officer, Stuart Southall, talks about his past, his start with ASFP, and his hopes for the future as a part of the team I joined the team as an ASFP Technical Officer on the 31st July 2023 to support the growth of the Association and to help further develop its technical offering.

Joining Dr Andrew Taylor, Niall Rowan, Sadiyah Begum and Tariq Malik in the technical team, I bring extensive experience in the construction and fire protection industry, spanning over 18 years. My background includes working for major manufacturers and suppliers in the UK construction sector, in key roles where I specialised in passive fire protection.

My previous roles at Etex (Siniat and Promat) and as a Regional Fire Protection Manager at Encon have provided me with valuable insights and expertise in fire protection products, systems, and solutions throughout all areas of the industry.

At ASFP I will be providing technical support and expertise to all ASFP members.

I have already started developing new and current Task Groups to help provide clear information on developing

14

standards, codes of practices, and guidelines for the passive fire protection industry. My background and training, including my Level 3 Certificate in Passive Fire Protection, make me well-suited for the role.

During the first three months at the ASFP I have started three new industry knowledge Task Groups: • Task Group 5 – Fire resisting Partitions: Tasked with updating the ASFP Purple Book • Task Group 8 – Fire resistant Glazing: Creating a new Colour book, aptly named ‘The Clear Book’ • Task Group 9 – Digital: Creating a new colour book to focus on the ‘Golden Thread’ to develop a code of practice for the industry. This ASFP Colour book will be called ‘The Gold Book’.

Through collaboration and problemsolving in these task group meetings,

TEAM PROFILE

we discuss the key issues in the industry and work with the experts from our membership to develop solutions to these issues and provide clear and concise information to the industry.

I have really enjoyed working for the ASFP the last three busy months and I am committed to the mission of ASFP, ‘To raise the quality of the design, commissioning, manufacture & installation of passive fire protection to make the world a safer place’.

My personal plans for the future are to continue working and learning from experienced experts in the fire industry for my professional development.

As for the ASFP, we have big plans for our members and the passive fire protection industry, with the development of the Competence Pathway playing a crucial part in ensuring the right people are trained and knowledgeable enough to work on passive fire protection projects, whether it be design, inspection, or installation. Training the industry’s workforce to be competent at their role will make the world notably safer.

ASFP IGNITE

01

02 February 03

2024

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Level 2 Training

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ASFP Webinars New Podcast Council Meetings Ignite Release dates ASFP’s Birthday

The dates on this calendar are accurate as of Monday 6th November 2023 and may be subject to change. Any changes made after this point can not be accounted for.

16

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

ASFP IGNITE

BRISTOL SEMINAR 12/03/24

ASFP AGM

11/04/24

REGATTA CHALLENGE 21/05/24

LONDON SEMINAR 19/06/24

WHAT MAKES ASFP

EVENTS SPECIAL? All ASFP events for 2024 are NOW LIVE and on the website ready for you to secure your tickets.

ASFP events range from educational seminars, to team building events, to celebrations, and while all of these may be trying to achieve different things, all ASFP events share the common goal to expand knowledge in the industry, and to encourage building connections and networking.

Our most popular networking events are our seminars. Throughout the year we hold three, all based in different parts of the United Kingdom. Each seminar takes a deep dive into a specific topic within the world of passive fire protection. We gather a range of speakers from inside and outside the ASFP to talk about their field of expertise to improve understanding of the day's topic. This is a great chance to meet interesting people from within the industry, and learn something new about the ever-changing world of passive fire.

If you are looking more for an event that will bring you closer with those in your team, we host an annual team building event in the form of a Regatta Challenge. Set sail with your "crew" as you navigate the waters of the Solent in order to take home the trophy. This event puts you on a yacht for most of the day where you must work together in order to master the waters.

Our next annual event is the ASFP AGM. While many may think that a company AGM is just a meeting to go over the Association's finance and governance, the ASFP AGM is much more. With a guest speaker, exhibition tables, and the opportunity to network with big names in the industry, you won't want to miss out.

AWARDS DINNER 21/11/24

And finally, the event at which many of you will be reading this, the ASFP Awards Dinner. Giving us the opportunity to highlight and praise those who have done outstanding work over the previous year, this event is a pure celebration to round off the year.

Get involved Most ASFP events offer opportunities to get involved and promote your company. This can be by exhibiting at the event, or by becoming an Event Partner.

To read more about each event, purchase your tickets, exhibit or become a partner, please scan the QR codes on the left of this page or visit www.asfp.org.uk.

ASFP IGNITE

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

17

ASFP 2023 CELEBRATING YOU

The ASFP Awards give us all an opportunity to stop and look back over the past year, and to celebrate all the great achievements made by you, our members, and to recognise excellence within the passive fire protection (PFP) industry.

If you are reading this live, we hope you enjoy the event, and we wish all of the finalists the best of luck. We would like to give a special thanks to all of our judges for providing their technical expertise to select today’s winners, and a huge thank you to the event partners, without you this event wouldn't be possible.

You can read more about them on the following two pages. And finally, a massive thank you to everyone here this evening.

WHO WON? If you are reading this after the date of the event, you can scan this QR code to see who our winners of the night were!

ITINERARY

18:00 - 19:00 Drinks Reception & Networking 19:00 - 19:10 ASFP Chair Speech 19:10 - 21:25 Dinner Service 21:25 - 21:35 MD Introduction 21:35 - 22:15 Guest Speaker Hal Cruttenden 22:15 - 23:05 Awards Ceremony 23:05 - 23:15 MD Closing Speech 23:15 - 01:00 Please Join Us For Drinks 01:00 Carriages

TODAY'S MENU

Starter • Blue Cheese, Fig & Sun-Blushed Tomato Tart with Baby Cress & Herb Oil • Heritage Tomato Salad with Smoked Salt & Avocado (GF / VG) Mains • Slow Braised Beef with Thyme Fondant, Glazed Carrots, Tender Stem Broccoli, Silver Skin Onions & Braising Jus • Baked Olive & Sundried Tomato Polenta with Bean Ragout & Seasonal Vegetables (GF / VG) Desert • Warm Sticky Date & Toffee Pudding with Toffee Sauce & Vanilla Ice Cream New York Baked Cheesecake with Berry Compote (GF / VG)

GUEST SPEAKER Hal Cruttenden is one of the UK’s leading stand-up comedians. Hailing from West London, Hal is a privately educated, middle-class, middle-aged comedian who has taken the comedy world by storm.

18

AWARDS 2023 | TODAY'S EVENT

ASFP IGNITE

DONATE TO As we celebrate another incredible year of innovation and growth, it is important to think about those who may have not had it so easy this past year.

The Children’s Burns Trust is a national charity dedicated to providing rehabilitation support for burn and scald injured children and their families, as well as prevention and awareness campaigns for which there is little or no national funding.

ASFP has supported the Children’s Burns Trust for the incredible charitable work that they carry out day on day throughout the year. So far, with your help, we have managed to help them raise over £15,000!

Be a part of the change. Your support to continue this vital work, and of course your money, will be helping the lives of hundreds of children. And in return, you will have something to smile about, and every reason to feel proud of your contribution.

To donate today, simply scan the QR code below and follow the instructions or visit www.cbtrust.org.uk/

SCAN HERE TO DONATE TODAY

ASFP IGNITE

AWARDS 2023 | TODAY'S EVENT

19

THIS YEAR’S

FINALISTS The Great Mosque of Mecca Installation of extensive smoke curtains in the Great Mosque of Mecca's tunnels for fire safety during the Hajj pilgrimage, improving crowd management and infrastructure protection.

ARC TCB Square TCB Square is a one-of-a-kind product, addressing critical challenges for on-site installers and inspectors and delivering a safer, more robust passive fire protection solution for low-rise housing.

Royal Liverpool University Hospital (RLUH) This project involved installing almost £11m worth of fire protection in two years, including firestopping, steelwork fire protection, fire curtains, and more.

COLT EI60S Defender F2 Smoke Control Damper Designed to meet the requirements of fire safety and smoke control, and to satisfy the aesthetic demands of architects and interior designers by making dampers as discreet as possible.

Tesco Extra Development in Woolwich Installation of passive fire protection systems within the Tesco Extra Store, car parks and 260 residential apartments and communal areas within the Tesco development.

Injectaclad SS17 A method to achieve 120 minutes' fire integrity and insulation in various timber construction arrangements due to issues with traditional fire barriers and the disconnect between prefab and on-site construction parts.

These candidates have been chosen based on the following criteria: • How much training the employees of said companies have done with ASFP • How many ASFP events they have attended • How many ASFP events they have exhibited at, sponsored or have provided speakers for • How many employees of the company have logged into the ASFP CRM • The frequency of those employees logging in and using the ASFP CRM • How many ASFP documents employees have downloaded • How many transactions the member company has made 20

AWARDS 2023 | THE FINALISTS

Harry Botten Harry started as a work placement student in March 2022 and is actively pursuing various certifications while advocating for young professionals in the fire industry.

Alex Griffiths Alex excelled since joining as a firestopper, demonstrating expertise, and actively promotes fire safety. His dedication and leadership make him an outstanding candidate.

Nathan Hassall Nathan rapidly progressed to Site Manager due to his adaptability and proactive pursuit of Passive Fire Protection qualifications.

ASFP IGNITE

Leave No Gaps FSi adapted to new guidelines, targeting a wider audience in the construction industry to promote awareness of their façade cavity barrier products.

Whiteboard Animations Innovative whiteboard animations in 2022 to enhance fire safety awareness, reaching a wider audience and improving industry messaging.

FB750 ETA A campaign to raise awareness about FB750 Intubatt, a vital but often overlooked firestopping product for the specification market.

The Lifetime Contribution award will be awarded to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional practice over a significant period (20+ years). This individual will have made an impact on people, organisations, or companies with a display of wisdom and depth of service / leadership. This nominee is recognised throughout their organisation for all they have contributed to the sector.

The Academic Achievement Award is awarded to the students who studied via the ASFP Level 2 training course or the ASFP Level 3 training course and recieved the highest score on the respective IFE exam.

ASFP IGNITE

The Passive Fire Protection Advocate of the Year will be awarded to a non-member of ASFP who can demonstrate that they are a major advocate of high-quality installed PFP. The nominee provided significant evidence of activities undertaken between 1st September 2021 to 1st September 2022 to raise awareness, educate and promote quality passive fire protection.

AWARDS 2023 | THE FINALISTS

21

Congratulations PARTNERS to all Award winners & finalists

THANK YOU TO OUR The ASFP Awards dinner is the biggest ASFP event of the year!

Attracting professionals from all over the industry including Manufacturers, Contractors, and Distributors.

To support such a big event in order to make it the best it can possibly be we look towards our members for their valued patronage.

Thank you to this year's partners: Checkmate Consort Gunfire Firefly

This event wouldn't be possible without you.

To read more about all of our partners please see each of their respective adverts.

tbafirefly.com

Gunfire and Virtuscan, working together to improve building fire safety.

Helping building owners, occupiers and those responsible for building maintenance and fire safety fulfill their duties and remain compliant with the Building Safety Act’s requirements for High-Risk Buildings.

• Fire Stopping • Fire Door Installation • Fire Door Maintenance & Inspections • Fire Barriers & Cavity Barriers • Compartmentation Surveys • Laser Scanning • Topographical Surveys • CAD Services: (2D plans, Fire Strategy Drawings, 3 models)

• Drone Services: (Photos, Videos, Surveys and modeling)

Installation with Integrity and Compliance at our core

enquiries@gunfirepfp.co.uk 01480 466880 www.gunfirepfp.co.uk

Business insurance designed to help organisations manage their exposure and liabilities in relation to fire risk.

As the Trusted Insurance Advisor and Affiliate Partner to the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), Consort Insurance has developed an exclusive, informed insurance programme reserved for ‘Best of Sector’ companies operating within the fire and security industry. This is not an open market solution, and terms are exclusively available from Consort.

Over the past few years, Consort has secured the backing of leading reputable insurers, and in combination, we are able to provide an incredibly comprehensive and competitive product.

If your organisation has an element of exposure to fire risk, you are likely to benefit from our insurance programme.

01621 890285 advice@consortpad.co.uk www.consortpad.co.uk

CREATING A BETTER

TOMORROW

Patrícia Gabriel, Tremco’s Brand & Communications Manager (Fire Protection Division) explores the main differences between foils and cartridges for firestopping products and explores the environmental impact of these options

The construction industry, as with many others, is evolving. Professionals and manufacturers in this industry, namely in passive fire protection, are becoming more aware and conscious of the impact that the different types of packaging have on the environment. So, in today’s world when facing the decision of which packaging solution to choose for your sealants and/ or adhesives, the options are either foils or cartridges. While cartridges remain a favoured choice, it’s worth noting that foil packs offer several unexplored advantages.

prolonged shelf life not only minimises waste but also enhances cost-effectiveness for your adhesive or sealant needs.

310ml vs the 400ml that comes in each foil. Straightaway, you’ll have 90ml less product to use and will need to buy more cartridges. Not only is there less product, but there is also more waste packaging when it comes to cartridges versus foils.

More waste disposal – When compared to the foils, cartridges can make recycling challenging. They produce far more volumetric waste, with more cartridges ending up in landfills and therefore, an increased disposal cost for applicators and contractors on site.

Plastic tax – As the cartridges are made of plastic and the Government is increasing the taxes related with plastic use, this will inevitably result in higher packaging expenses for manufacturers. Consequently, this will lead to increased product prices for customers.

You will find various sizes of foil packs in the market, the most common are the 400ml or the 600ml. At Nullifire, for example, we’ve recently launched the new 400ml foil packs for FS702 Intumastic Fire Resistant Acrylic Sealant. The advantages of using foils include: • More for the same - The 400ml foil holds approximately 35% more product compared to the standard 310ml cartridge.

Despite sharing the same dimensions as the cartridge, you can now enjoy a higher volume of sealant without any increase in physical size. This means fewer refills and increased efficiency, ultimately saving you time and money.

• More eco-friendly and efficient - The foil has a reduced percentage of plastic compared to cartridges, plus, it features an efficient dispensing mechanism that ensures every bit of the sealant/adhesive is utilised, leaving little waste behind. By reducing waste, you not only optimise your consumption but also contribute to a more sustainable construction industry.

• Reduced waste disposal - Once completely empty, the foil can be easily crushed down into a compact ’slug’ that takes up just 5% of the space compared to a traditional cartridge. This results in a remarkable 95% reduction in waste, leading to significant cost savings in disposal.

• Improved shelf-life – Unlike some cartridges, which have a 24-month shelf life, Nullifire foil packs offer the advantage of an extended 36-month shelf life, ensuring product longevity. Moreover, this

However, there are also downsides to using foils packaging: • Less impact resistance - Unlike cartridges, • foil packs are not made of a thick strong skin around the material. Although they are still quite resistant to damage, the foil skin can be more easily damaged than a cartridge.

• Limited reusability – While foils can also • be stored for future uses, there is a high chance that the product inside (either sealant or adhesive) will be cured. This can lead to higher material consumption over time.

• Transitioning costs - Transitioning to foil packs might require an upfront investment in the form of a new applicator gun.

In the realm of passive fire protection, the choice between foils and cartridges for Cartridges: traditional packaging packaging firestopping products involves Cartridges have long been a conventional choice for packaging. These disposable, plastic a trade-off between ease of use, waste generation, and environmental impact. containers are filled with either adhesive or a sealant product and closed with a plastic cap on When evaluating the environmental impact of top. Most of the time, these are accompanied by a nozzle, required to be fitted for the product these two packaging options it's essential to consider factors such as raw material sourcing, application. energy consumption, waste generation, and At Nullifire the most common packaging we end-of-life disposal. Both types of packaging produce for our sealants and adhesives is the require raw material extraction that contribute thin-wall cartridges that contain 310ml. As the to resource depletion and have a negative name suggests, this type of cartridge has less plastic in its composition compared to the thick- impact on the environment. And, when it comes wall cartridges. The thick-wall cartridges usually to energy intensity, the production of both foils and cartridges involves high-energy intensive contain less product, 290 ml to be precise. processes.

The benefits of using cartridges include: As the construction industry continues to • Easy storage - Because of the design of prioritise sustainability, finding a balance the cartridges, these are easy to store, improving efficiency on construction sites. between effective fire protection and ecofriendly packaging will remain a key challenge.

• Application equipment – The required While cartridges remain a favoured choice for applicator gun is more widely available packaging, Nullifire recently introduced the since this is the most common and most 400ml foil packs for the FS702 Intumastic Fire used type of packaging.

Resistant Acrylic Sealant, as a self-conscious • Less damage – Cartridges are made of decision to create a better tomorrow, paving a stronger and more durable material, the way for a more sustainable construction meaning it can withstand the most challenging delivery and storage conditions industry, one foil pack at a time. and any possible puncture and damage to For further information: the packaging itself. tel:01942 251400 email:hello@tremcocpg.com or visit www.tremcocpg.eu.

However, there are also considerations when using cartridges: • More product waste / less product to use – With cartridges you’ll only get

24

CREATING A BETTER TOMORROW | NULLIFIRE

Foils: the eco-friendly option In simple terms, a foil resembles a sausage. It consists of a composite foil casing that wraps the adhesive or sealant, sealed at both ends with a metal clip.

ASFP IGNITE

PLUS ÇA CHANGE,

PLUS C'EST LA MÊME CHOSE ASFP Operations Officer Ireland, David O'Reilly, discusses aligning Irish building regulations, control, and fire safety focusing on passive fire protection In last year’s award’s issue, I wrote about Developing a National Strategy for Fire Safety, a white paper that had just been launched at Fire Conference 2022. This year’s conference provided a review of progress on many strands aimed at addressing issues identified in Dame Judith Hackitt’s initial report published in late 2017. One core element of Dame Judith’s recommendations is the ‘Golden Thread of Information’ putting the end-user/occupier at the forefront of design consideration.

This is a concept that we struggle with in Ireland, with regulation persisting on separation between Building Regulations, Building Control Regulations and the fire safety management of existing buildings. The consultation period for revised Building Regulations Technical Guidance B (TGD B) concluded in April, with publication expected in the coming months. The published draft included a new Regulation 12, which requires designers to provide management information for the end-user as is the case in UK Approved Document B (ADB) Regulation 38.

Unfortunately, in a step back into the past, the draft wording totally ignores passive fire protection, only stating a requirement to provide information on active systems.

This position is particularly confusing in being at odds with the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) report into Fire Safety in Ireland which was commissioned by the Minister in the aftermath of the Grenfell fire tragedy. This report states that fire safety in buildings is generally seen as a function of four aspects with passive fire safety features set at the top of a list that includes active fire safety features, the management of the building, including the management of fire safety, and the behaviour of persons in the building.

ASFP in collaboration with the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), presented a detailed submission to the consultation providing information on the design, installation and management of passive fire protection systems. In doing so it referenced the ASFP’s Ensuring Best Practice for Passive Fire Protection in Buildings, Colour Books and Technical Guidance Documents. The best practice document has been referenced in a TGD B appendix since 2006 and the Colour Books more recently. Both need to be moved centre stage.

In place since the implementation of the Building Control Act 1990, Building Regulations require the issue of a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) for all new construction, other than single unit dwellings, or material alteration of existing buildings. The FSC is issued by a local authority approving an application submitted by the designer. As part of the planning process, designers are required to develop a fire strategy for a proposed development demonstrating compliance with building regulations and submit this to the relevant local authority for approval.

For our purposes the relevant parts of this application are, • Compliance Report – sets out the fire strategy for the proposed design demonstrating compliance with the requirements of B1–B5 • Drawings – showing locations and specified fire resistance ratings of fire compartment walls and floors.

This ensures ‘a written fire safety strategy, with a plan that details all building work and integral fire safety processes’, and the fire safety strategy is designed by competent professionals and approved by their counterparts within the local authority building control system. The FSC file contains the designed fire strategy, the location and specified fire resistance of both the structure and fire compartmentation. This is the core information along with details of the systems installed to meet these requirements that the owner/operator needs to manage fire safety.

Discussion at the 2021 IFE Fire Safety Conference indicated not only a lack of understanding of the FSC process, but little knowledge of the requirements placed on building owners and operators by the Fire Services Acts. Dame Hackitt’s ‘Golden Thread of Information’ links Building Regulations, Building Control Regulations and fire safety management. Ireland has been leading the way since BCAR, but unless our regulators understand and adopt this approach, history will repeat itself.

It describes the passive or inbuilt fire safety features in a building, such as the layout and fire-resisting construction of the building, including the escape routes which enable persons to leave the building safely (referred to as ‘means of escape’); the passive fire safety features appropriate for any given building relate to the use of that building and the scale and occupancy and are set out in relevant guidance documents and codes of practice.

The NDFEM report also states the aspiration to improve fire safety management standards as has been achieved in construction with the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations (BCAR). Prior to the introduction of BCAR in 2014 there was no satisfactory sign-off or certification of completed construction. This is well-documented in the 2012 public consultation document Strengthening the Building Control System.

S GS ING TIN ET EE RE G GR M OM RO F FR

IRELAND

The cost of this regulatory failure has now been recognised with €2.5bn being allocated to pay for remedial works.

ASFP IGNITE

A LETTER FROM IRELAND

25

ESTIMATION OF FIRE PROTECTION FOR STRUCTURAL STEELWORK

Trevor Bridgwood and Allan Jowsey of ASFP member PFP Specialists consider the estimation of materials, specifically intumescent coatings, used in the built environment

Estimation is the process of determining the level of resources required to successfully complete a project. In the context of passive fire protection (PFP), this will include materials, labour, and equipment. Accurate estimation provides the basis for accurate quotes, cost control and ultimately a successful project. Failure to consider all the relevant factors can have dramatic effects on the resulting material quantities and, more importantly, the ability to achieve the required fire resistance rating for the structure.

Typical enquiries Requests for estimation come from a variety of people and roles across the contract chain.

Architects may wish to understand likely product thickness requirements to be able to detail provision for expansion gaps into which a coating will swell in the event of fire – typically 50 times the dry film thickness (DFT).

Structural engineers and fabricators may need to understand whether the elements of structure they are designing can indeed be protected, or whether redesign to some extent may be required. Their interest may also extend to optimisation to ascertain whether there is any benefit to over-designing the steelwork to capture a beneficial reduction in passive fire protection material requirements.

Applicators will require estimates of product thicknesses and overall volume of material to enable them to quote for work on projects.

There are various stages of construction as set out in the RIBA Plan of Work 2020. The above

examples of requests for estimation can occur at several different stages, including Concept Design, Spatial Coordination, Technical Design, and Manufacturing and Construction.

The most recognised stage for estimation of structural steel passive fire protection is likely to be Technical Design, since this stage typically involves finalisation of the structural design, generation of drawings, setting of steelwork specifications, and preparation of tenders ahead of construction.

Producing an estimation The actual process of estimation may be undertaken by different people. This could range from a simple thickness lookup from a product table for one structural member by an architect, through to a complete estimate for all members in a building by a dedicated estimator. Some companies, including steelwork fabricators and applicators, may have an in-house capability to undertake estimation, or they may look to outsource this activity. Some manufacturers provide a dedicated estimation team to advise customers in relation to their products, while independent estimation services are available to undertake a similar service but with respect to multiple product options.

There is no specific PFP estimation qualification. Most estimators work to recognised best practice or in-house procedures wherever possible and draw on the experience of colleagues. The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) and the ASFP have introductory and foundation courses in PFP, with associated qualifications. As an example, the ASFP membership requirement recognises that technical advisors ‘reading from a

manual’ should have passed the respective Level 2 examination. In the context of estimation, this could be interpreted as following a procedural best practice guidance document and reading passive fire protection thicknesses directly from a product’s certificate of performance.

Modern enquiries relating to PFP estimation often request clarification on specific scenarios and design details that fall outside the scope of a certified table of product thicknesses.

In this scenario, a deeper understanding of the topic of PFP may be needed to be able to provide a response. Indeed, this activity is likely to fall outside the scope of estimation and instead align to that of technical support.

This is recognised by the ASFP/IFE Foundation courses/qualifications in PFP, and the ASFP in their membership requirements which state that advisors giving technical evaluations should hold the Level 3 qualification. Such non-standard guidance is not considered further within this article, however, the ASFP Advisory Note 17 gives further guidance on this topic.

Guidance documents To support estimators, the ASFP produce supporting literature to help clarify some of the processes and methods to adopt.

These are not specifically estimation support documents, instead, they are a combination of Colour books, Advisory Notes (ANs), Technical Guidance Documents (TGDs), and industry best practice documents. The ASFP Yellow Book relates to fire protection for structural steel in buildings. While this document contains technical guidance on testing and assessment methods, it also provides useful guidance and background on specific scenarios of which an estimator should be aware.

Similarly, Advisory Note 12 contains useful guidance, including a sample bid submittal, checklists for designers, and guidance on how to interpret and deal with certain estimation aspects.

However, despite the various guidance documents, there may still be disparity in the approaches adopted by different estimators.

This may not be the result of intentional mis-adoption or mis-applied guidance, but more likely due to a lack of awareness of approaches and when and where they should be used. In the absence of clear specification from a design team, an estimator should ideally make conservative assumptions to arrive at

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ESTIMATION OF FIRE PROTECTION FOR STRUCTURAL STEELWORK

ASFP IGNITE

fire protection requirements.

In many instances, there may be an expectation that clients will be able to review all output from an estimator, understand all approaches taken, read and digest all project specific notes, verify surface areas, and cross-check product thicknesses. The reality is that, due to the potential complexity involved with estimation of structural fire protection, different approaches and assumptions may be made by different estimators. In the event that a client sends the same estimation request to several different estimators, it is highly likely that several different estimates will come back. From the client’s perspective, this results in a side-byside comparison akin to considering apples and oranges.

This doesn’t mean that any of the estimates are necessarily wrong, or indeed imply that there is significant justified concern within the industry. Below we will consider some example situations where information is missing, or specifications are lacking, and will address common associated estimation approaches. As an estimator, being able to educate clients within the industry and communicate effectively is important.

Submission types Estimation enquiries at a basic level often come in one of two formats. They can be either a set of structural drawings or a list of steel members. Occasionally the enquiry may be a 3D model, such as those generated by steelwork fabrication software, or Building Information Modelling (BIM) output such as a platform-independent .ifc file type.

requirement to split the takeoff into different zones, to coordinate aspects such as different fire resistance periods across the structure, or different protection solutions such as interior and perimeter steelwork.

In the absence of a clear mark-up of protected steel, reference may need to be made to other project-specific documents, such as a fire safety strategy and/or structural fire engineering strategy. To assume all loadbearing structural steelwork may seem conservative, however, it may not align with the strategic intent of the design. The interpretation of ‘load-bearing’ elements of structure by an estimator, may potentially be different to that of the project’s structural engineer.

Additionally, inclusion of members forming or supporting roofs potentially may be left unprotected in some UK guidance. Treating all steel as protected may result in overestimation of fire protection requirements.

3D models have the benefit that key members can easily be identified and tagged as requiring fire protection by the owner of the model, who is likely to be a key member of a project’s design team. Their respective section sizes, lengths and surface areas are also readily available in the form of an output report. Once an estimate is complete, there is the potential for product thicknesses and associated information to be uploaded back into the model.

The result of considering a drawing, typically comprising plans, sections, and elevations, will be a list of steel member designations that need fire protection, and their respective lengths or surface areas. The receipt of an enquiry which is a steel list to start with, removes potential ambiguity associated with members needing protection. Once a steel list has been determined, an estimator can then start to consider product and associated thicknesses.

Drawings and steel lists Where structural drawings are used as the basis of the estimate, the fire protection arrangement should clearly be identified. This ensures that regardless of estimator, the same members are being considered. The estimator will perform a steel take-off to determine the respective lengths of the relevant structural elements. In some cases, there may be a

Fire resistance ratings At this stage, it’s worth a reminder about fire resistance ratings. Many people in the industry still refer to fire ratings as simply a period of time, eg 60-minutes, or 90-minutes. However, there is more to a fire rating than just a period of time. There needs to be consideration as to what is an acceptable performance criteria.

This is achieved by reference to a critical steel

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temperature, ie a temperature which the steel must not exceed within the fire resistance period. The temperature should ideally be determined by a competent designer on the project, such as the structural engineer or fire engineer.

In the absence of calculated temperatures, conservative defaults are often referenced as being applicable by the design team, or adopted by the estimator directly. There are multiple sources of conservative critical temperature and their values have changed over time as structural standards have evolved. The Yellow Book provides guidance on these temperatures, which may be different for different occupancy load types, eg office, congregational, or storage loading.

Note that the occupancy in this context relates to the load type, not necessarily the actual occupancy use of the building. An office building, for example, could have both office and storage loading designations across a floorplate. Where occupancy loading is unknown, the Yellow Book provides guidance on safe temperatures to adopt, which may be different for different structural forms.

In addition to the fire resistance rating for a structure, a product estimator will likely need to know how the structural element is being used. For example, intumescent coating product thickness certificates may be split into different use tables including three-sided exposed beams, four-sided beams and columns, square or rectangular hollow sections, circular hollow sections, tension rods, concrete filled steel tubes, and beams with web-openings (cellular beams). An estimate should clearly define how each section is being considered for the purpose of thickness determination.

ESTIMATION OF FIRE PROTECTION FOR STRUCTURAL STEELWORK

27

Steelwork specifications In the context of fire protection, steelwork specifications should also clearly define the fire test standard considered acceptable on the project. It should not be confused with the structural engineering standard. The fire test standard is the methodology and potentially assessment procedure that has been used to determine the certified product thicknesses.

It will direct the estimator to the correct set of product thicknesses for use on the project.

The actual fire protection product name, its type, or equivalent characteristics should be defined in the steelwork specifications.

This should include aspects relating to environmental exposure and overall system requirements, including use of primers, and topcoats as required.

The detailed definition of specifications is not within the scope of this article, but awareness is drawn to the ASFP documents on the subject such as TGD 11 and TGD 16 which are codes of practice for specification of intumescent coating for on-site and off-site application respectively.

Thickness determination With an understanding of the steel sections, their orientation, use, fire resistance period, and critical steel temperature, the estimator can now start to determine product thicknesses, or in the case of intumescent coatings, the DFT. Each section has a parameter known as a section factor. This is a measure of the ratio of exposed 28

perimeter (Hp) to the cross-sectional area (A), or alternatively, the exposed surface area (Am) to its volume (V). The section factor is then given by Hp/A, or Am/V, according to British or European notation accordingly. For common serial shapes and exposures, these values are tabulated in the Yellow Book. For custom fabricated sections, the estimator will have to evaluate the section factor based on the geometric properties of the section.

Proprietary fire protection estimation software will typically aid this determination.

The estimator can now look up a DFT for the intumescent coating. The DFT is converted to a wet film thickness (WFT) of coating using the solids-to-liquids ratio, also known as the volume solids content, which is commonly given on product datasheets. For example, if the DFT was 600μm and the volume solids content was 75%, then the WFT would be 600/0.75 = 800μm. Multiplying the WFT by the surface area of the section to be coated will give the associated volume of material, typically given in units of litres. Where a product is sold by mass, then its density can be used to calculate the associated requirement.

Summing all the section requirements will then give the overall quantity of material for a project. Allowance for wastage may be considered by applicators when determining overall cost.

Alert checklist When structures align with tested arrangements they can be easy to interpret, and the process of intumescent estimation can be relatively straightforward. Challenges may arise when deviations to tested arrangements are proposed, ambiguity exists in information provided, or there is lack of awareness from the estimator on how to address something. However, solutions to these often exist within the ASFP literature.

Although not covered in detail here, examples of relevant items to watch out for may include: 1. Products will specify a maximum DFT for use on beams. This will be clearly stated on the product’s certificate and must not be exceeded.

2. Composite beams have lower default critical steel temperatures than noncomposite beams in some industry guidance.

3. The use of trapezoidal decking with unfilled voids for composite beams.

Recommendations are provided for an associated uplift of DFT on the three exposed sides to compensate for potential localised heating of the top flange.

4. Provision of structural utilisation factors instead of critical steel temperatures.

These are common in parts of Scandinavia, and their use is becoming more common in the UK. They need converting to critical steel temperature during the estimation process.

5. Consideration of beams with web openings. Normal three-sided beam

6.

7.

8.

9.

DFT tables cannot be used. Thickness recommendations can typically only be given directly from a coating supplier since DFT datasets are not in the public domain. Cell beams also require special consideration with respect to their critical temperature derivation, and default temperatures for normal three-sided noncomposite or composite beams may not be conservative.

The term three-sided beam infers a concrete slab is on the top flange and provides fire protection accordingly. This is how intumescents are tested. If a beam supports alternative construction, then a different solution may be needed.

Bracing members with high section factor values. Solutions exist to limit both the section factor to 200m-1 and the critical temperature to a low value to permit these sections to be protected.

DFT tables have a clear scope relative to section factor and critical steel temperature. Use of DFTs outside this certified range is not advised unless suitable evidence exists to support it.

Conservative default temperatures are for carbon steel substrates. Other substrates such as wrought or cast iron may need further consideration.

The importance of estimation The role of an estimator of structural steel fire protection is important within the context of a project. While conservative and simplified approaches can lead to solutions, there are also solutions that exist to reduce overall material requirements, while still maintaining safe and robust solutions. These typically have a direct beneficial impact on project costs, timeframes, and logistics.

More and more, estimators are expected to have a more complete understanding of other elements, including product performance in non-standard arrangements, structural engineering terminology, and fire engineering methods and approaches.

Regardless of the chosen method to produce an estimate, the flow of communication and record-keeping is important for a project.

This could extend to items such as requests to a project team for clarification and/or missing information, statements relating to any assumptions adopted, clear statements on product certification adopted, and references to any industry guidance used to arrive at the final estimate. The estimation report and these statements should be maintained for future reference, ideally as part of an accessible digital trail of information.

For further information, visit: www.pfpspecialists.co.uk

ESTIMATION OF FIRE PROTECTION FOR STRUCTURAL STEELWORK

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“A dedicated service for PFP estimation”

Passive Fire Protection Estimation • • •

Structural drawing take-off PFP thickness determination Annotation of thicknesses

Our services Drawing to steel list Structural steelwork drawings to spreadsheet list with relevant mark-ups.

Facility to additionally determine PFP material requirements.

Dedicated online portal Web-based portal to submit enquiries and track status of jobs.

Best practice Our methods and approaches align with recognised fire protection best practice and industry guidance as appropriate.

CONTACT US estimation@pfpspecialists.co.uk www.pfpspecialists.co.uk

Why choose PFP Specialists?

Over 30-years combined in-house global experience in PFP estimation and fire protection materials.

We write the commercially available and independent PFP estimation software for structural steelwork: QUANTIFIRE® In-house Chartered engineer registered with the Institute of Fire Engineers (IFE), to undertake engineering judgements and optimisation studies.

About our company PFP Specialists Ltd. is an independent consultancy company that works alongside product manufacturers and design teams to provide specialist support as required.

We operate in the areas of structural fire engineering, surveys and inspections, software, and estimation. Our staff are highly active within industry bodies including participation and chairing committees at UK trade association, British Standard, CEN, and ISO level.

BUILDING BLOCKS FOR

DEMONSTRATING COMPETENCE

David Marah, Director of Milford & Marah Ltd provides an update on the latest developments of the ASFP Competence Framework

Back in the March issue of Ignite, Kate Milford took some time to describe the ASFP’s work on building a culture of competence, and our plans for how this will

develop this year and into the future. Since then, there have been numerous developments. On page 40 you’ll find an overview on the raft of secondary legislation flowing from the Buildings Safety Act, then on page 37 a discussion of how this will influence the road to safer buildings.

The Building Safety Regulator is beginning to formalise its work on Gateway 2, and took another big step forward on competence in September, with the first meeting of its new Industry Competence Committee (ICC). The formation of the committee was a requirement of the Building Safety Act. The ICC has a dual role, to provide evidence-based advice on competence to the Regulator and to promote the need for improved standards of competence across the built environment.

Our own Kate Milford has been appointed as one of 17 independent experts to sit on the committee. While this is a personal appointment reflecting Kate’s years of experience working on different competence initiatives across multiple sectors in the industry, it highlights how the ASFP can lean on expertise to drive our competence agenda forward. ASFP is also keen to support the ICC’s drive to help bring industry together and encourage a more cohesive approach to competence.

Wider industry consultation on these outputs closed in August. These included proposals for the validation and revalidation of competence against the benchmarks, and actions required to turn the proposed future state into a reality.

The group is now considering the positive responses.

This group was commended for its proactive and structured approach, and its outputs have been used as a basis for guidance to future industry groups. Following this success, ASFP has agreed to facilitate a second group focusing on ductwork and dampers. That group is currently being formed, with a mixture of ASFP members and other industry parties invited to specify competence benchmarks in this area.

While eager to work collaboratively across industry, ASFP doesn’t want to passively wait for work in other areas to start. With that in mind, we’ve also been working on two other areas critical to ASFP members.

Activities in our ‘Design and Specify’ domain are specifically focused on the design of passive fire protection (PFP) within buildings. The importance of upfront design has never been clearer, whether undertaken by architects and designers at the design phase, or by specialist contractors. ASFP has defined these Creating a benchmark for competence dedicated activities for the first time, as well as This collaborative approach is demonstrated benchmarks for competence in each in terms through our commitment to supporting the work of skills, knowledge, experience and behaviour of another industry group, the Competence (SKEB). We are currently actively forming a Steering Group’s Working Group 2. This is consultation group for these, bringing together dedicated to defining competence requirements colleagues from within passive fire as well as for installers throughout the built environment. Tier 1 contractors and other interested parties Since September 2022, ASFP has been leading to validate these outputs before adoption. its work with firestopping specialists, one of six priority occupations identified. Through the In a similar fashion, activities in our ‘Sell Firestopping Specialist Sector Group (FSSG), we and distribute’ domain are focused on spent several months compiling a map of the placing PFP products on the market. activities carried out within firestopping and Closely mapped to the requirements proposing benchmarks for competence in each. of the Code for Construction Product

30

COMPETENCE PATHWAY

ASFP IGNITE

other requirements for their roles defined by their core industry specialists.

Information (CCPI), but with additional detail to interpret for the PFP industry specifically, similar competence benchmarks have also been created and are also shortly to enter a consultation phase.

In both these cases, ASFP has taken the initiative to start work in areas of high importance, but we’re also still committed to broader consultation in our shared goal to ensure a cohesive approach to competence within passive fire and across the built environment.

The ASFP Competence Framework There are several "competence" frameworks being developed, and other competence benchmarks in existence that might also fulfil a similar role. The ASFP has taken another step here to support the PFP sector and has created its own online Competence Framework. The

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goal is to incorporate all PFP-specific activities from across the sector, from initial design through to sales, installation, inspection and testing, and including the occupation phase of completed buildings. Bringing these activities together into consistent format outputs from industry groups and those created within the ASFP, the Framework is provided as a free library of information for the benefit of the sector.

The Framework can be accessed by anyone, without payment or logins, at www.asfpindex.org.uk/competenceframework, and people are free to link to it as a whole, or to specific activity definitions within their own work.

The Framework extends across the building lifecycle and is divided into seven ‘domains’ which provide the different contexts that PFP exists within. The details are defined as activities, not job roles or ‘occupations’, reflecting the fact that people working in PFP may be doing so from within another role, be it an architect, surveyor, installer, inspector, or facilities manager.

As the leading trade association for PFP, representing organisations with extensive experience in PFP, we want to provide guidance in those activities that can sit alongside

COMPETENCE PATHWAY

Browsing through the site and list of activities, you’ll see that those relating to firestopping installation contain links to more details, and the statements of SKEB created by FSSG. To aid clarity, these have been collated (and duplicates combined) under consistent headings: • • • •

Core abilities, which are transferable between activities Specific abilities, which are specific to the activity in question Culture and behaviour, which focuses on the how ongoing individual behaviour can drive culture change in the industry Currency of competence, or how individuals can ensure their competence remains current through experience and continuing professional development (CPD).

As consultation continues and more detailed statements are finalised, these will be added to the system. Just as any true definition must reflect the current competence of a person (not what they learned years ago), the benchmark of competence must continue to evolve. The activities identified to date may change as further development takes place, and even those defined in detail will evolve over time, reflecting changes to industry best practice.

What’s next?

Defining and publishing a benchmark for competence is a vital first step, but also only the first step of the process. Companies are free to adopt these activity definitions into their own work now.

ASFP has much more coming in this area, including further training courses, recognition of third-party training against the Framework, collection of evidence against these criteria, validation of competence in these activities, and ultimately the ASFP Quality Mark. But first let’s celebrate this important step.

For further information on the Competence Framework, visit www.asfp.org.uk/page/ TheASFPCompetenceFramework and watch out for news of our activities on the ASFP website and social media.

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THE MARK OF

QUALITY

Industry competence is a hot topic at present and with the upcoming changes to regulations there will be more onus on companies to prove their capabilities and those of their staff. The ASFP has been working with industry to develop a framework of what competence should look like and is always striving to improve industry best practice.

Demonstrating competence at both company and individual employee level is key to demonstrating the competence of the industry as a whole. With our commitment towards industry improvement, we have developed the ASFP Quality Mark. This mark builds on existing industry practices and is intended to support the industry Competence Framework. The ASFP Quality Mark is a mark of recognition, issued by the ASFP to passive fire protection (PFP) installation companies and will be used to identify companies that are committed to demonstrating ongoing competence.

In order for a company to receive the mark they must demonstrate capabilities at company level, validate the competence of their PFP installation staff and also be certificated by an accredited certification body, signed up to ASFP third party certification guidelines.

Third party certification plays an important role in the PFP installation industry. By being third party certificated PFP installation companies are independently checked for their organisational capabilities, the competency of their staff and also have onsite inspection visits carried out to witness their work. The ASFP has been working closely with certification bodies to produce guidance on minimum requirements that should be included in third party certification schemes designed for PFP installation companies. These guidelines are intended to strengthen any existing certification schemes and make them more robust.

The competence of individual PFP installers will need to be demonstrated by having appropriate records that are supported in the industry Competence Framework. The framework has been designed by considering the various PFP installation activities and producing a set of skills, knowledge, experience and behaviour (SKEB) requirements which will need to be evidenced by an individual. By providing evidence against these SKEB requirements there will be a mechanism 32

THE MARK OF QUALITY

ASFP Compliance & QA manager Tariq Malik introduces the new ASFP Quality Mark

for organisations to check and verify the capabilities of their PFP installation staff.

Finally, companies will be required to demonstrate organisational competence by providing proof that they operate a Quality Management System such as ISO 9001, have relevant insurance policies in place, and provide copies of safety procedures if relevant.

These checks are already part of the ASFP membership process, so existing members will meet this criteria.

Once a company is able to fulfil all three requirements, they will receive recognition from the ASFP and be awarded the ASFP Quality Mark. By having the mark, it is expected that specifiers will choose to opt for companies awarded the mark, since it will give additional assurance regarding organisational and individual competence of the selected contractor.

As the PFP industry’s leading trade association, the ASFP is looking to offer a proactive approach towards culture change and the ASFP Quality Mark is a step towards this.

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ASFP FIRESTOPPING

FOR INSTALLERS

ASFP e-learning manager, Phil Brownhill, introduces the new online training course specifically tailored for installers of passive fire protection products The correct installation of passive fire protection (PFP) is crucial in ensuring that buildings are appropriately protected in the event of fire and that compartmentation is maintained.

Compartmentation is the means by which a building is divided into areas that are more manageable in the event of fire. It is also used to isolate areas of high risk, such as plant rooms, from the rest of the building and to ensure the

means of escape is maintained free of fire and smoke during evacuation.

Fire-resistant walls and floors are designed and constructed in order to achieve this protection, but to allow buildings to be functional, these fire separating walls and floors will be penetrated by the many different services that are present in modern buildings. All the penetrations present in a building must be protected in order that the

compartmentation is maintained. This work should be undertaken by properly trained firestoppers, under the umbrella of a third party certification scheme.

Training in the installation of firestopping is often provided by the manufacturers of these products and systems but, of course, manufacturers only train installers to install their own products.

Introducing the ASFP Firestopping For Installers ASFP is proud to announce that there is now a more generic approach that installers can take to improve their knowledge in the installation of firestopping products, such as batt and mastics, pipe collars and wraps, fire and cavity barriers, compounds and mortars etc.

The ASFP Firestopping for Installers course is available as e-learning. It sits alongside the now well established ASFP Foundation courses in passive fire protection, which is the learning that underpins the IFE passive fire protection Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.

The Firestopping for Installers course is hosted on the AREA 9 Lyceum e-learning platform, one of the most advanced learning platforms in the world. Learners will have a personalised adaptive learning experience that is question-driven and incorporates text, speech and video to navigate learners through the often complex world of firestopping.

The course features video footage of firestopping systems being installed and takes learners through the typical installation process step by step, to confirm, develop and improve their knowledge of the installation process for each system type. Alongside the installation videos, learners will be presented with spoken text and images that describe the make-up and purpose of each system, as well as providing best practice guidance in their installation. The knowledge acquired will then be evaluated via a series of questions that vary in type, from multiple-choice, fill-in-the-box, or placing a list of possibilities into the correct order.

The course is tailored to each learner’s needs and will typically take about 90 minutes’ screen time to complete. On completion of the course, learners will be issued with a Certificate of Completion, as evidence that they have achieved the Learning Objectives.

Developed by the ASFP in collaboration with both firestopping manufacturers and established installer companies, the ASFP Firestopping for Installers e-learning course is the next step in the Competence Pathway that is designed to develop and improve passive fire protection standards in the built environment.

To find out more about ASFP Training visit www.asfp.org.uk/page/ASFPTraining.

ASFP IGNITE

ASFP FIRESTOPPING FOR INSTALLERS

33

PUBLICATION

UPDATE

ASFP Head of Technical Dr Andrew Taylor reviews some of the latest new and revised publications The evolution of ASFPs best practice advisory and guidance documents is a permanently ongoing process. We have recently published two new Advisory Notes and updated another four documents as detailed below. Advisory Notes are short notes aimed at covering single issues.

The most recent publication is Advisory Note 32, which covers the Association’s position on the use of BS 476-based fire resistance testing on Eurocode designed structures.

The note looks at the relationship between design codes, test methods and the building regulations.

The guidance was written just prior to the Government starting the consultation on the future of BS 476 test methods, and so the Association waited a while before publishing the text. While this text provides assurance for projects in the past and immediate future, once the outcome of the Government’s consultation on the future use of BS 476-based testing is clear, we will obviously need to review this text.

The other new publication, Advisory Note 31, covers the use of performance smoke seals

34

in active curtain assemblies. The document has been produced as a response to some comments in the marketplace about the use of smoke seals and whether S is the relevant smoke leakage classification.

Updated documents The most significant of the document updates has come in the form of a rewrite of Technical Guidance Document (TGD) 21, which covers the UKCA and CE marking of operable fabric curtains. A Technical Guidance Document is a longer document which covers a series of complex issues in detail.

TGD21 looks at the confusing situation covering the conformity assessment requirements of active curtains, for which the specification needs to be checked to see if it comes within the scope of mandatory marking under the Construction Products Regulations, in addition to the requirements of the Machinery Directive. The document covers the situation today, and how the Machinery Directive provisions may change – against the information we have. Again, we know that the provisions of the UK Construction Product Regulations are likely to change at some point, probably in 2024, under secondary legislation

PUBLICATIONS UPDATE

published by the UK Government as a followup to the Building Safety Act. Therefore at some point shortly, we will need to review the document to keep it up to date.

The situation with all three documents discussed above highlights one of the main challenges that ASFP’s technical team encounters with our publications. The regulatory framework is continuing to evolve.

Not long after I started at ASFP, Niall and I did one of our first regulatory presentations. One slide concluded that we had never before seen such a state of flux, with the Building Safety Bill and Brexit driving significant changes to the regulatory framework. We noted that this would consequently mean that there would be a great many tweaks needed to keep our publications up to date and relevant.

Here we are some five years later, and the same is true. However, we recognise that we cannot keep still and wait for all the regulatory changes to be completed before we amend the publications. That will just never happen. So we will continue to develop the publications with the aim of keeping our guidance as current as possible.

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CURTAIN WALL

PROTECTION

Chris Hall, External Affairs Director of Siderise Insulation, explains the test-paths to compliance for curtain wall perimeter fire seals

Perimeter fire seals are critical to the passive fire safety of glazed façades, sealing off the movement gap to prevent the floor-to-floor spread of flames, smoke, and heat. Currently, there are two test-paths to compliance in the UK: BS 476-20 and EN 13644. However, the Government’s recent consultation on the proposal to remove national classes from Approved Document B has led many to consider which of the current accepted test standards offer better insight into the performance criteria of these critical passive fire protection products.

Understanding product performance in context Published in 1987, BS 476-20 is a small-scale test designed to give ‘methods for determination of fire resistance of construction elements (general principles).’ The test is static and requires the test specimen to be installed between two concrete lintels within a closed furnace before subjecting it to defined heating and pressure conditions to establish its fire resistance (EI) rating. Whilst BS 476-20 offers a basic understanding of a product’s standalone performance, as per its title, it is designed to be generalised, therefore does not give a clear indication of a product’s ability to resist fire in its intended application.

minimum of 500 cycles between the minimum and maximum joint width, to simulate the types of wind sway, seismic activity, and thermal loads a curtain wall construction may have to tolerate in-application, at a rate designated by the test applicant. After this cycling, the construction is left to stabilise for 24-hours and cannot be altered before testing.

EAD 350141-00-1106 is not compulsory within the test, but it is required for CE marking when claiming a movement capability greater than 7.5%. Nevertheless, this movement cycling is extremely important for demonstrating that the perimeter firestop is capable of withstanding real-world deflection and dynamic movement without degrading (ie not fully recovering), and by function of its durability – its ability to continue to maintain the required fire resistance performance over the life of the building.

from fire testing have been third-party certified by an accredited body to instil confidence in the claimed performance and consistency of firestopping products.

Notwithstanding, if the Government goes ahead with removal of the BS 476 series altogether, EN 1364-4 will become the only compliance test path in England if following the statutory guidance in Approved Document B. Encouraging best practice Additionally, the EN 1364-4 system approach can also be deemed to encourage a more holistic approach to spandrel zone protection, which goes beyond current regulatory requirements.

Whilst perimeter firestops are extremely effective at inhibiting fire and smoke spread, compartmentation is reliant on them being able to maintain their fit between the floor slab and facade. As well as being able The recommended approach to withstand movement, they also It stands to reason that EN 1364-4 can need to abut to a stable structure provide a clearer understanding not that can withstand elevated fire only of how the perimeter fire seal will temperatures for a satisfactory period. perform as a product, but also how it Aluminium mullions and transoms that will interact dynamically with other are often used in non-fire-rated curtain components of the spandrel under fire wall systems can rapidly deform conditions. in the high-intensity heat of a fire, jeopardising the structural integrity of This is why the Association for the spandrel.

Meanwhile, EN 1364-4 was developed Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), since to take a more holistic approach.

2014, has been recommending in its To reduce this risk and offer the best This is a part configuration test that Red Book that ‘linear gap seals used possible fire resistance in aluminium applies to both ‘Type A’ – non-firein association with curtain walls are systems, a fire-resistant board made rated, and ‘Type B’ - fire-rated, curtain only tested to EN 1364-4’. Meanwhile, of dense, non-combustible insulation walling systems. It examines the fire the Centre for Window and Cladding that shields both the spandrel panel resistance to internal and external fire Technology (CWCT) announced in 2022 and the mullion can be used alongside exposure of the complete spandrel that it plans to update its guidance in a perimeter firestop. This helps to system for the test duration, including Technical Note 98 to recommend that preserve the integrity of the assembly the spandrel panel, the perimeter ‘curtain wall fire stops should be tested and the stability of the curtain walling fire seal, the fixing of the framing in accordance with EN 1364-4’. The framing system. system (anchoring) used to attach the proposed approaches in relation to EN curtain walling to the floor element, or 1364-4 are to use the firestop within Realistic thinking combinations thereof. This wide scope the field of application of the test or To ensure the highest standards of fire means it can be used for different within an extended field of application safety, it is important that we consider kinds of curtain walling constructions. using EN 15254-6 to further widen the both the function of perimeter scope for approval. firestopping seals as an individual This systemised approach is far more product and the role that it plays as representative of a true spandrel However, it is important to note that part of a protected spandrel system in construction, especially where the the test result applies only to the the crucial spandrel zone. This should test assembly is also subjected to cold specific types and combinations of the be supported by appropriate testing movement cycling in accordance with perimeter fire seal, spandrel insulation that looks beyond basic compliance to European Assessment Document (EAD) and any additional fire protection deliver best practice fire safety for all 350141-00-1106 before fire testing. boards. They cannot be used curtain wall projects. interchangeably or substituted without For more information about curtain Why is movement a key repeating the full curtain wall façade wall firestopping, visit: consideration? set of tests. Additionally, whichever knowledge.siderise.com.

EAD 350141-00-1106 requires that the the path and test standard, it is highly perimeter fire seal is subjected to a recommended to verify if the results 36

CURTAIN WALL PROTECTION

ASFP IGNITE

Head of Technical, Dr Andy THE ROAD TO ASFP Taylor, outlines ASFP initiatives

SAFER BUILDINGS A raft of secondary legislation to support the Building Safety Act was published in August and came into force on the 1 October 2023 (see page 40). This new legislation does not change the fundamental legal requirement, which is to build safe buildings that resist the growth and passage of fire for a reasonable period of time.

That reasonable legal requirement was there before and is still there now.

In terms of the journey, through design and construction to delivering a safe building – the end destination, the safe building is the same.

However, the new requirements mean that we now need to think and plan how we arrive at that safe building, before we set off.

The concept of ‘Design and Build’ means a number of different things to different people.

To a construction lawyer, it might mean that the responsibility for design is novated down the contractual chain from the principal designer, via the principal contractor, to the specialist installer, who is tasked with delivering the passive fire protection (PFP). However, to that specialist installer it may mean that the existing design of walls and services are incompatible with anybody’s fire test evidence, and possibly even the testing standards themselves.

I often think this is like setting off on a journey with only a vague idea of where you are going, for example, looking up the full address when you stop at services and then putting it in the sat nav. There are issues that can arise from this approach, it means that you might end up driving through a load of roadworks en route!

The secondary legislation means we need to think and plan better. Gateway 2 (permission to construct) requires full plans for high risk residential buildings (HRRBs) before construction can start. This means we will need to know how we are going to build that safer building. I hope that the extent of the full plans means that we think about the design decisions before we build, and therefore avoid many of the pitfalls and troubleshooting that seems to be endemic in trying to deliver large complex buildings.

ASFP IGNITE

It may take us longer to get through Gateway 2, but once through, I really hope that the construction phase to Gateway 3 (permission to occupy) will be easier than it is now. If we avoid the pitfalls that ‘design as you build’ leaves the contractors open to, construction should be easy.

So, by planning my car journey before I set off, I may find a better way to get there, or advance warning of a road closure, and the car will have been fully fuelled up, so I won’t need to stop at the motorway services.

Ultimately, the key thing to smooth the way through Gateway 3 is to have the whole digital record of what has been constructed – the Golden Thread. The whole point of the new Gateways is to deliver this digital record of what has been constructed. The reason for this is best summed up by a bullet point in the HSE’s introduction in the Gateway 2 and 3 document, which states the aim of our work on Golden Thread should be to provide: ‘Assurance that evidence captured for any aspect of the build is of sufficient quality to allow a decision on compliance for that aspect.’

How can ASFP help?

The ASFP is exploring how it can help with this and, in this article, I will outline three of our key initiatives.

The first is related to the Golden Thread. There are lots of articles introducing the concept and explaining what it is. The ASFP wants to go a stage further and draft some detailed codes of practice to explain how to do it, product by product. We have set up a new Technical Group 9 (TG9) with a view to writing these codes of practice. This group held its first meeting and has requested a list of relevant parameters from all the other ASFP Technical Groups for each individual product area.

THE ROAD TO SAFER BUILDINGS

which aim to improve the journey to building safer buildings

Our second initiative is to work with members of our Certification Technical Group to investigate increasing the minimum requirements of the relevant product and installer certification schemes. This is linked to the recent Morrell and Day report recommendation for Government to improve the product testing regime. The ASFP’s opinion is that we can adopt voluntary standards and pass those recommendations on to Government to help them to deliver what is needed. One of the factors we can use to improve the certification of PFP installers is to increase the competence of the individuals who work for installing organisations. ASFP’s Competence Framework to support this is continuing to develop (see page 30).

Finally, ASFP is working to try and help resolve all the issues where there is a disconnect between design, testing, certification, and installation. ASFP has been working with Tier 1 contractors through the Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG). The PFKG members have identified a number of issues that occur as a result of current design practices (or, in some instances, the lack of them). ASFP organised a meeting with a group of our members and PFKG members to discuss these issues and identify solutions. These include modifications to test standards and recommendations for future ASFP publications.

There is a lot to do to ensure that the road to safer buildings is smooth, quick and free from hold-ups. Maybe next time, I should just organise my meetings to start later, so I can take the train?!

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IMPROVING BUILDING

FIRE SAFETY The Building Safety Act received Royal Assent on 28 April, 2022. It was published on 16 May, 2022 and is being implemented from spring 2022 to mid-2024, through a programme of secondary legislation.

This long-awaited legislation is the Government’s response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety established in response to the Grenfell tragedy.

It applies to buildings in England and Wales that are 18m or more in height, or contain multiple dwellings, and introduces responsibilities for building owners, managers, and developers.

The Act aims to address the shortcomings in fire safety legislation identified in Hackitt’s report, Building a Safer Future. It serves as enabling legislation to implement all 53 recommendations from the report.

Many key requirements for the design and construction requirements of higher-risk building (HRBs) came into force 1 October 2023 through the following secondary legislation: • The Building (Higher-Risk Buildings Procedures) (England) Regulations 2023, SI 2023/909 • The Building Regulations etc. (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2023, SI 2023/911 • The Building (Approved Inspectors etc. and Review of Decisions) (England) Regulations 2023, SI 2023/906.

The HRB regime consists of new building control procedures and building regulations which must be complied with, together with related changes to how building control inspectors operate.

It introduces a prescriptive building control approval “gateway” process before works can start and before completed buildings can be occupied. Approval must also be sought before implementing significant changes to the works.

National Building Safety Regulator (HSE) The new building control regime will be overseen by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) as part of the Health and Safety Executive. The appointment of the new National Building Safety Regulator signifies a stricter regulatory regime in the UK. The regulator's primary responsibilities include overseeing the safety and performance of all buildings and promoting competence among those working in the construction and building industry.

The Gateway process The Building Safety Act introduces three Hackitt Gateways, which are covered in more detail on page 40.

Gateway 1 became active in September 2022 and focuses on requiring more detailed fire strategies.

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ASFP Technical Officer Stuart Southall provides an overview of the Building Safety Act, which introduces significant changes and improvements in building safety and regulation in England and Wales

Gateway 2, came into force on 1 October, 2023. This requires clients and designers for high-risk buildings to submit full plans to the HSE in order to obtain permission to construct. This represents a large quantity of technical documentation and places a number of requirements on principal contractors. It is particularly challenging for design and build contracts.

Gateway 3 is the final check to ensure that what was built matches the original plans. For a completion certificate to be approved, there must be sufficient evidence to support that what was built reflects the approved plans, and the requirements of the building regulations have been met. These checks will rely on the submission of suitable Golden Thread information.

software for recording Golden Thread information.

In summary, the Building Safety Act, Hackitt Gateways, and the Golden Thread represent a comprehensive overhaul of building safety regulations in the UK, with the aim of increasing transparency, accountability, and safety in construction and building management.

For further information on the latest fire safety legislation and the role of passive fire protection visit www.asfp.org.uk

Golden Thread The Golden Thread is intended to provide more detailed building and fire safety information than required under Regulation 38 of the Building Regulations. It aims to create a comprehensive, digitally stored and secure source of truth about a building. It must be available to those who need the information, presented in a usable format, and be usable by a person to conduct a job.

Introduced by the Higher Risk Building Keeping and Provision of Information etc. Regulations, these requirements came into force on 1st October and address the need to keep building information digitally and securely. This is vital for ensuring the safety of HRBs. Clients are primarily responsible for collating and submitting this information to the HSE. It is important to remember that the Golden Thread isn't just for new construction. Existing relevant buildings also need to maintain a comprehensive record of their building and fire safety information. This is essential for risk management. If information is missing, the building owner is responsible for demonstrating efforts to find it and adapt safety measures accordingly.

The Act encourages the digital recording of building systems, installation practices, product certifications, proof of competence, and more.

This will drive increased transparency and accountability in the construction and building management industry.

To handle diverse digital systems and ensure the accuracy of digital records, well-defined inspection protocols should be included in contracts and codes of practice. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the Golden Thread. ASFP Task Group 9 Digital has just started work on a Code of Practice for digital IMPROVING BUILDING FIRE SAFETY

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BUILDING SAFETY ACT

WHAT’S NEXT? The Building Safety Act was the Government’s response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety established in response to the Grenfell fire.

It addresses the shortcomings in fire safety legislation identified in Hackitt’s report, Building a Safer Future and is the enabling legislation to implement all 53 recommendations from the report.

It applies to buildings in England and Wales that are 18m or more in height and introduces responsibilities for building owners, managers, and developers and general duties for all stakeholders. It was published last May and is being implemented through a programme of secondary legislation that stretches from 2022 to the middle of next year.

ASFP Technical and Regulatory Affairs Officer Niall Rowan gives a brief overview of the main points of the Building Safety Act and how the latest secondary legislation that came into force on 1 October impacts those applying for and constructing High Risk Buildings (HRBs).

such as the need for two stairs and fire service access to HRBs. Initial figures showed 75% of applications were knocked back due to inadequate consideration of the issues listed above. This figure is now improving.

Gateway 2 came into force on 1 October, 2023.

This requires clients and designers for highrisk buildings to submit full plans to the HSE in order to obtain permission to construct. This is a huge change and means a large quantity of technical documentation must be in place and it places a number of requirements on principal contractors. It is particularly challenging for design and build contracts.

Gateway 3 is the final check to ensure that what was built matches the original plans.

For a Building Completion Certificate to be The Key Points approved, there must be sufficient evidence The High Risk Building (HRB) regime consists of to support that what was built reflects the new building control procedures and regulations approved plans, and that the requirements which must be complied with, together with of the building regulations have been met. related changes to how building control This means much more, and a more thorough inspectors operate. It introduces a prescriptive inspection of completed works, either by building control approval “gateway” process the principal contractor and/or where the before works can start and before completed installing contractor is third party certificated, buildings can be occupied. by the certification body (or its inspectors).

The ASFP Certification Task Group is looking Building Safety Regulator at harmonised and enhanced requirements The new building control regime will be for third party certification of contractors and overseen by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), the frequency and details of inspection is a which is part of the Health and Safety Executive. critical part of this. These checks will rely on This signifies a stricter regulatory regime. The the submission of suitable Golden Thread regulator's primary responsibilities include information. regulating HRBs but it is also overseeing the safety and performance of all buildings.

Golden Thread As discussed on page 38, the Golden Thread Competency is intended to provide much more detailed The BSR also has a responsibility for promoting building and fire safety information than competence among those working in the required under Regulation 38 of the Building construction and building industry. Quite how Regulations. It’s Regulation 38 with teeth they are going to do this remains unclear. This is if you like. Golden Thread aims to be a of significant interest to ASFP members, bearing comprehensive, digitally-stored and secure in mind approximately half our members are single source of truth about a building. It must contractors. The Competency Steering Group be available to those who need it and in a and associated working groups have been usable format for those undertaking a particular working on the Competence Frameworks for function. all professions in construction. Working Group 2 (contractors) has just completed six pilot This is a big ask and current software packages projects and the ASFP has led the completion tend to focus on what was constructed of a Competence Framework for firestopping and where it is located for inspection and and will soon move onto fire resisting ducts and record-keeping purposes. These will need dampers. to be developed to include recording of the design, the decisions justifying that design, Gateways procurement and, at the other end ongoing The Building Safety Act introduces the concept changes to the building eg in fire safety of fixed Gateways. These are stages or stops measures, and maintenance records. where satisfactory information must be provided and agreed/approved before progress The requirements for Golden Thread came can continue. into force on 1 October and address the need to keep building information digitally and Gateway 1 became active in September 2022 securely. The client is primarily responsible for and focuses on requiring more detailed fire collating and submitting this information to strategies. This does not impact too much on the HSE. Guidance on what to include can be ASFP members, dealing as it does with fire found here www.hse.gov.uk/building-safety/ strategies, planning permission and issues golden-thread.htm. I find it odd that so much 40

BUILDING SAFETY ACT - WHAT'S NEXT?

responsibility for Golden Thread relies on the client and wonder if many are sufficiently motivated to do this or sufficiently skilled/up to the task.

Existing relevant buildings also need to maintain a comprehensive Golden Thread record of their building and fire safety information. If information is missing, the building owner is responsible for demonstrating efforts to find it and adapt safety measures accordingly.

To handle diverse digital systems and ensure the accuracy of digital records, well-defined inspection protocols should be included in contracts and codes of practice. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the Golden Thread. ASFP Task Group 9 Digital has just started work on a Code of Practice for digital software for recording Golden Thread information.

Implications on Those Creating High Risk Buildings 1) Building Control Approval Application (Gateway 1) Any person, eg a client wishing to build an HRB or create one through alteration must: • Submit a building control approval application to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to obtain approval before starting any building work • Obtain approval when major changes are made to the proposed work • Inform the BSR of any notifiable changes • Obtain approval from the BSR before undertaking any major changes to the proposed work • Construct the work in accordance with the design approved • Provide Golden Thread evidence at the end of a project through a completion certificate application to demonstrate that you built what you said you would/were given approval for; and that it meets the Building Regulations.

The application to the BSR must include the following documents: • A Competence Declaration to confirm you have assessed and are content that the Principal Designer, Principal Contractor, and any other appointed person at the application date have the necessary competence to discharge their responsibilities effectively.

As well as records of everyone on a particular project from the architect/Principal Designer, the Principal Contractor, will they want the records of each worker on site? This seems unworkable and unnecessary?

• A Building Regulations Compliance Statement demonstrating how the building will meet the functional requirements of the Building Regulations. For fire safety, ASFP IGNITE

•

•

•

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Approved Document B is one approach but may not be applicable for all buildings.

A Fire and Emergency File with clear information relating to the measures, strategies to demonstrate and policies the owner of the completed HRB should adopt to manage and maintain the building to ensure anyone in it can be safely evacuated in an emergency. The regulator will check that any assumptions about how the building will be managed in occupation are realistic.

A Construction Control Plan demonstrating how the building work will be managed through construction to endure building regulations compliance including: • Management arrangements to ensure the work as planned will satisfy all applicable functional requirements of building regulation • Management arrangements to ensure sufficient evidence of the ‘as built’ is captured to support the completion certificate application.

A Change Control Plan to demonstrate how change control will be managed and monitored throughout the construction process. This will include the procedure to determine whether changes are notifiable or major, and to identify which changes require notification to the Regulator and which changes require a change control application to the Regulator before the change can occur.

A Mandatory Occurrence Reporting plan when there is a structural safety or fire safety occurrence in relation to the design of a building or an incident or situation during construction. Such a safety occurrence if not remedied before occupation is likely to present a risk of a significant number of deaths or serious injury to a significant number of people

Major change A major change is one that would undermine the basis by which building control approval was granted. In this case, the client must make a change control application to the BSR and work cannot start until the change control application is granted. A change control application must be made by the client, or someone on their behalf with a description of the proposed controlled change. BSR will notify the applicant of the outcome of a change control application within six weeks.

Examples of major changes include: proposed use, building dimensions especially in relation to height, number of storeys, structural design, number and width of stairs for evacuation, make-up of the external wall and most interestingly, a change to any part of the active fire safety measures or passive fire safety measures in a proposed higher-risk building referred to in the fire and emergency file. This last point is a bit of a catch all and it begs the question how detailed is the consideration?

How big does a change in the passive fire protection need to be to be identified as a major change? Surely a screw centre change would be too ‘granular’ whereas a change in the type of fire protection to structural steel might be.

3) Completion Certificate Application (Gateway 3) Once building work is complete, a completion certificate application should be submitted. It must contain sufficient information to show how the building conforms to the approved design and satisfies requirements of the Building Regulations.

It must also be confirmed that their change control process and any changes have not changed the assessment of compliance. The completion certificate application should include: • ‘As built’ plans and information • Final versions of all accompanying documents that accompanied the initial application • Any controlled changes and the change control log • Information captured through construction, commissioning and inspections.

Notifiable changes A notifiable change is one that could impact on compliance. If the change is notifiable, the client must notify the regulator, but work can This is potentially a huge amount of information be started once that has been done. There is no but will be included in the Golden Thread need to obtain permission. information.

Examples of notifiable changes include: layouts of rooms, numbers/dimensions of any openings in any wall, ceiling or other building element for any pipe, duct or cable (this could be huge), changes to the wall tie, wall restraint fixing or support system in any wall or proposed wall 2) Undertaking construction work (Gateway 2) (excluding an external wall) and the interesting catch all: ‘any other change to the fire and Once the client has building control approval emergency file or the fire safety compliance and has notified the BSR of the intention information’. to start work, the Principal Contractor is responsible for managing the Golden Thread during construction. However, as it is expected Clearly then, notifiable and major changes could give rise to a huge and bureaucratic that (despite the requirement to lodge full nightmare, depending on how granular plans) design and construction will overlap, the Principal Designer will have a duty to plan, the changes proposed might be. Whilst it is obvious that major changes, such as the manage and monitor design work associated number of floors etc require approval, to what with the building work. They will need to extent would eg the change in an individual collaborate with the Principal Contractor penetration seal or an item of essential to ensure any design work done during the ironmongery be required to be notified? construction phase is included in the Golden Thread.

At a recent Construction Leaders conference To make sure there is adequate record-keeping, in October at which Dame Judith Hackitt was speaking she mentioned that ‘significant the client is responsible for ensuring there is changes’ to a specification needed to be a record of all the controlled changes made. recorded for HRBs. She went on to clarify to All changes from the original building control a questioner that any product that could be approval application must be recorded. deemed ‘safety critical’ could fall in under There are two main types of change, major a ‘significant change’ if the specification changes and notifiable changes. It will be the changes, which would indicate that changes responsibility of the client, along with the to eg essential ironmongery as part of value Principal Designer and Principal Contractor, engineering would have to be subject to some to decide if a controlled change is major, sort of change control. notifiable, or just requires recording.

ASFP IGNITE

My gut feeling was that Dame Judith was being belt and braces. Others eg the regulator, or the dutyholder producing the safety case/Golden Thread information might consider the change of a piece of ironmongery/a type of firestopping as too ‘granular’ to use the current vernacular.

I think the crucial consideration is ‘any other change to the fire and emergency file or the fire safety compliance information’. This is one that will rumble on and have the potential to be very disruptive if not handled sensibly. Perhaps more guidance is needed. I am a bit concerned that the decision as to what is major or notifiable is down to the client. Perhaps that could be considered a conflict of interest?

BUILDING SAFETY ACT - WHAT'S NEXT?

Occupation is not permitted until the BSR issues a completion certificate and the building is subsequently registered. The BSR will carry out final inspections of the building work and assess whether the completion certificate application meets the following requirements: • The work is complete and complies with all applicable building regulations • The required information and accompanying documents submitted are complete and accurate • The Golden Thread person is complete and has been provided.

If the BSR is satisfied it will issue a completion certificate. A completion certificate must be obtained before an HRB can be registered and therefore occupied.

In summary, the Building Safety Act, Gateway stages, and the Golden Thread represent a fundamental and comprehensive overhaul of building safety regulations in the UK. Questions remain as to what level of changes to passive fire protection will trigger a notifiable or major change and there are questions and concerns over the nature and size of the Golden Thread which will need to be addressed.

Acknowledgement is given to the HSE guide Building Control: An overview of the new regime.

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