Fire Sector Confederation seeks to enhance fire safety standards at sports grounds

The group is chaired by Paul Brunt (pictured, above left), fire safety manager at Manchester United Football Club, and aims to bring together a range of stakeholders, including the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA), fire safety officers, fire equipment suppliers, fire safety expertise service providers, sports grounds authorities and local authorities to share knowledge and expertise that will prevent fires and enhance safety.

The new initiative follows several months of planning by the Fire Sector Confederation’s executive director Steve McGuirk (pictured, above right), Paul Brunt and also Tim Burgin of the SGSA.

Unique platform

Steve McGuirk commented: “We’re delighted that this Special Interest Network is now up-and-running, providing a unique platform for professionals with an interest in sports ground safety to join forces and focus on developing guidance, influencing standards and improving communication in order to prevent fires in sports venues.”

McGuirk added: “The work of our Special Interest Networks drives the agenda for the National Fire Safety Strategy Board and the Fire Congress, duly helping to inform and shape policy.”

Paul Brunt observed: “This is an important milestone in our drive to improve fire safety across all sports grounds in the UK and I’m honoured to be the inaugural chair. The initial response has been incredibly positive with enthusiastic participation from football, rugby and cricket clubs right across the country. It’s a unique platform for sharing Best Practice and tackling challenges collaboratively such that we inform the best possible safety standards.”

Significant role

Tim Burgin informed Fire Safety Matters: “The formation of this group of stakeholders will play a significant role in the review of fire safety in sports grounds, which has been prompted by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. The group brings together experts from across the country whose collaboration will be potentially significant in shaping the new Green Guide.”

Participating in the group are representatives from Premier League and EFL clubs, rugby union and rugby league clubs, horseracing venues, cricket grounds in addition to industry representatives and Government advisors on fire safety.

The group will continue to meet on a regular basis. Any potential stakeholders with an interest in participating should send an e-mail to: admin@firesectorconfederation.co.uk