Si Gibson appointed technical director at Etex Building Performance

In his new role, Gibson (who joins from civil engineering access solutions firm Wrekin) will work to expand the extensive testing portfolio of both brands.

Bringing a wealth of experience in construction manufacturing, Gibson will build on the schedule of enhanced testing and competency now established at Etex. Having served as technical director at Wrekin, he brings demonstrated technical leadership along with extensive construction product knowledge as well as R&D experience.

Promat and Siniat have been positioned as market leaders in fire test data following an intensive testing programme that included a commitment to testing to the EN standard ahead of it coming into force. This has latterly seen a focus on the need to provide more comprehensive data for material interfacing and also expand the field of application.

That process has been supported by a commitment to drive up standards within Promat and Siniat. All technical and sales staff are required to undertake the Institution of Fire Engineers’ Level 3 course in Passive Fire Protection to demonstrate a specific depth of knowledge.

In point of fact, Siniat was one of the first companies to sign up to the Construction Code of Product Information and demonstrate a commitment to clarity in product information that supports better standards and transparency in the construction industry.

These are solid foundations that Gibson aims to build on as he supports Etex Building Performance in solidifying its commitment to upholding the highest technical and operational standards in construction manufacturing.

Considerable shift

Speaking about his appointment, Gibson stated: “The construction industry has undergone a considerable shift in the last few years and the increased focus on standards in testing and competency is welcome.”

He continued: “Promat and Siniat are in a strong position to support major players in the construction industry in delivering safer, compliant and fully evidenced passive fire protection and internal wall systems, but there’s still more we can do.”

On that note, Gibson observed: “Collaboration is going to be vital for expanding knowledge and testing moving forwards in order to provide the sureties that developers and end users want to see. This will allow better system testing as well as ensuring efficiency in the build process.”

Further, Gibson explained: “The supply chain needs to be more self-governing. Legislation cannot move quickly enough to make the changes we need to see now for comprehensive and lasting progression across a host of applications and projects. As an industry, we can step up and set the bar where it needs to be. We must set the standards ourselves.”

According to Gibson, Etex Building Performance is already on the journey, recently taking the bold step to accept design liability for its system designs, while also acting to de-risk construction decisions through extensive classification reporting. “This is our take on what responsible manufacturing should look like,” affirmed Gibson.

In conclusion, Gibson informed Fire Safety Matters: “I’m looking forward to working with partners across the industry on how we can make it easier to build safer buildings that support longevity and efficiency.”

*Further information is available online at www.etexgroup.com and www.promat.com