FEATURE VOLUMETRIC MODULAR
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on training and competency. Our guidance ensures that site teams understand exactly how to maintain the fire integrity of modules throughout installation. The discipline of following through on-site is just as important as the engineering that goes into production. The pace of innovation in this space is exciting.
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Material science is delivering non-combustible insulation with both thermal efficiency and fire
designers, contractors, regulators and clients all play
resilience. Modular systems are being designed to
a role. At MPBA, we foster collaboration by creating
integrate active protection – sprinklers, detection,
platforms where best practice is shared and lessons
alarms – as standard, not optional extras. This kind
are disseminated. Our role is to keep the conversation
of forward thinking not only strengthens safety but
moving forward, ensuring no one works in isolation.
also helps streamline compliance in line with tightening regulations.
The bottom line? Fire safety is about protecting lives. If modular construction is going to continue its rapid growth in the commercial sector – delivering
Taking safety to the next level
schools and hospitals, supporting infrastructure –
Make no mistake, the regulatory environment is
we must keep safety front and centre. The public will
shifting, and rightly so. Stricter rules provide clarity
only embrace modular at scale if we can demonstrate
and raise the bar across the construction sector. But
reliability, resilience and trustworthiness.
we encourage our members not to treat compliance as
Image 2: King’s College Hospital Willowfield Building. Courtesy Premier Modular Image 3: Archbishop Holgate’s School. Courtesy Portakabin
The future is modular, but only if we build it right.
the ceiling. Meeting the letter of the law is one thing.
At MPBA, we are committed to driving the industry
Building trust, reputation and long-term value means
forward, setting higher standards and proving
going further – exceeding standards rather than just
that modular and portable buildings can lead the
meeting them.
way on fire safety. The message is simple – safety
Collaboration is the final piece of the puzzle. Fire
Image 1: Porton Science Park. Courtesy McAvoy Group
is not negotiable, and with volumetric modular
safety is a shared responsibility. Manufacturers,
construction, it is not compromised.
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Issue 49 September 2025
Find out more at: www.mpba.biz
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