Legacy Issues: A Thing of the Past

We understand that the challenges of construction projects can sometimes lead to unintentional deviations from plans and regulations. At times, following firestopping guidelines may be hindered by tight deadlines, changing applications or even just a lack of clarity on industry Best Practice.

That said, it’s never too late to change the way in which you work and ensure that fire safety is at the forefront of all projects.

Two-step process

There are two steps to this process. The first is al about facing the current situation and identifying areas of non-compliance. Second, once you are aware of those areas requiring improvement, the focus turns towards rethinking internal processes to ensure future installations are in line with regulations.

Much like fixing anything that goes wrong, legacy issues are no stranger to a hefty price. As the industry knows, retrofit projects are not only more costly, but also a tremendous hassle.

July this year witnessed Barratt Developments plc spend/allocate £180 million on “making legacy buildings safe [...] this is in addition to the £434.6 million provision it made in 2022.”

For retrofit work, there’s less test evidence available and, therefore, maybe little-to-no choice when it comes to firestopping. This is because many legacy projects will have limited access, usually single-side only and require the removal of kitchens, bathrooms, walls and ceilings.

Opting for tested products from a competent manufacturer during the initial stages of a project will prove far more cost-effective than having to fix any defects in the building at some point down the line.

Uprooting your reputation, legacy issues will ensure you pay the price for not doing it right the first time around. No matter what, there will inevitably be consequences for any unwise choices made in the past.

How can legacy issues be avoided?

Do it right, do it once. By taking an early engagement approach, you may feel as if you are slowing the project down to evaluate its wants and needs instead of continuing with the job. However, this approach provides you with the opportunity to engage all the responsible parties overseeing the design and installation of firestopping systems. By doing so, any potential problems or untested applications can be identified at an early stage and appropriate solutions implemented that align with the manufacturers' guidelines.

Early engagement saves lives. It also helps to avoid extra costs and delays, ensures compliant and achievable installations and protects and even improves the reputation of the company.

Following Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, the concept of the golden thread of information was created to ensure that key information about a building’s lifecycle is gathered, stored and maintained. The golden thread needs to be created before any building work starts and kept up-to-date throughout the design and construction phase. This shows that the building is compliant and meets regulatory requirements.

With such a thorough process set in motion, any potential legacy issues are less likely to be missed. There will be a better understanding of the building and both the structure itself and its occupants will be kept safe.

Embracing industry software

You don’t have to go it alone. Many industry software companies help ‘Responsible Persons’ to create and maintain the golden thread of information. Keeping up-to-date documentation on what’s installed in the building yields complete transparency and traceability and eliminates any future vulnerabilities.

If you are facing challenges from legacy issues, rest assured that you are not alone. There are effective measures that can be implemented to address these concerns and prioritise fire safety. First, though, it’s crucial to move beyond past practices, learn from mistakes and adopt a proactive approach in constructing buildings going forward.

This involves early engagement, fostering cross-party communication and collaboration and paying close attention to detail. Sometimes, it may even require a cultural change.

Such steps are essential for safeguarding people and property. If we continue with the same old methods, legacy issues will surface and buildings will never truly be secure. Ultimately, we must consider the response to e key question: ‘What is the true value of life?’

Engage with relevant parties and manufacturers who are always ready to offer evidence-based support and solutions. Help is out there. Be sure to use it.

Darryl Wells is Commercial and Development Director at Quelfire (www.quelfire.co.uk)