Tarlochan Singh, aged 48, from Cryfield Grange Road in Coventry, served as the director of 5th Capital Limited, the owner of Ridgemount House on Bede Way in Peterlee, when concerns were raised with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service that people were sleeping inside the “derelict” building.

Fire safety officers made a late-night visit to the premises and discovered nine men sleeping on the third floor. They also found several other serious fire safety breaches, which placed one or more people at risk of death or serious injury in the event of a fire.

These breaches included a failure to make a fire risk assessment, a failure to ensure the premises had appropriate fire detectors and alarms, a failure to ensure that emergency exits were kept clear, a failure to provide adequate emergency lighting and a lack of sufficient fire doors.

Durham Crown Court heard that, in the wake of these serious breaches, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service contacted Singh and learned that the nine people found in the building had been working on another building (also owned by Singh) in the Peterlee area.

Guilty pleas entered

Singh pleaded guilty to a total of eight charges, all of them relating to breaches of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Prosecutor Rosalind Scott Bell explained: “Singh knew the state of the building and knew the workers were being housed in it. He must have seen the risk, but he chose to take that risk.”

Sentencing Singh on 24 February, Judge Joanne Kidd ordered him to pay a £48,000 fine within 12 months or otherwise face being jailed. He must also pay £45,711.48 in costs.

Addressing Singh, Judge Kidd stated: “These premises were fundamentally derelict and nobody could have thought they were suitable for anyone to spend any period of time in them. It would have been obvious to you and to anyone that they were in a state of dilapidation. If there had been a fire inside the building, these nine men would have been very much at risk of not being able to exit the building.”

Serious breaches

Director Ben Cairns from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service has welcomed the outcome of this case.

“In 2022, we were informed by the Health and Safety Executive of concerns that people were sleeping at Ridgemont House,” said Cairns. “Our primary aim is to keep the people of County Durham and Darlington safe from fire. Our specialist fire safety officers attended the premises. The breaches of fire safety legislation they discovered were so serious that there was an immediate risk posed to life. As such, the inspecting officers immediately prohibited the use of the building.”

Cairns continued: “In this case, there was a serious disregard for fire safety and the risk to life was so serious that it was in the public interest to pursue prosecution. While it has taken an extended period of time to reach this point, I welcome the outcome of the legal process as this demonstrates our commitment to keeping the people of Durham and Darlington safe.”

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service urges all property managers and landlords to ensure compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 at all times and to act promptly on risk assessments and Enforcement Notices.

The Remediation Improvement Plan will be formally announced and introduced over the coming weeks and set out a targeted package of measures purpose-designed to improve the “efficiency, quality and timeliness” of applications for remediation projects.

The focus is set to be on three core areas: strengthening the BSR’s resource capacity, improving internal processes and also supporting industry to submit higher quality applications.

Gateway 2 new-build applications in the 12-week rolling period to 25 February have seen 108 decisions with 82 new applications received. Overall closed applications continue to exceed previous rates with 639 made (including 273 invalidations). The number of live applications of all categories is 1,212.

Legacy cases have reduced to three, with 18 long-term cases featuring significant technical challenges having now been transferred to a ‘Complex Case’ category. This is where account managers work closely with applicants to try and progress to a successful outcome and deliver safe homes. Approval rates of legacy cases continue to be high at 53%.

65% of all closed applications across all Gateway 2 categories related to London cases with 404 made in the capital over the past 12 weeks. New-build applications representing 15,178 residential units were received and decisions on 23,197 units duly issued, with a total of 10,514 approvals. There are currently 31,191 units in live cases.

Innovation Unit progress

During the past 12 weeks, the Innovation Unit (itself a dedicated team of registered building inspectors, technical engineers and regulatory leads) has made 27 decisions, ten of which were in London. Eleven applications have now been approved with a median approval time of 18 weeks.

For applications post-validation, 33% are approved (up 3% from last month) and 33% rejected. The remainder are under active account management. The BSR is continuing to work to reach approvals despite them having failed to demonstrate sufficient evidence to warrant approval at 12 weeks.

The continued focus is on increasing approval rates for safe applications and supporting those parties making applications in order to ensure more cases pass the validation stage.

Enabling the delivery of safe homes is vital. The BSR is accelerating work to drive down approval times through enhanced consistency conventions to address areas of technical dispute between experts, exploring third party independent validation of key design elements and accelerating the onboarding of specialists (such as geo-spatial engineers or computer modelling specialists) when needed.

The Innovation Unit is currently managing 123 live new-build applications representing 26,224 units. 69 of those cases are for projects in the capital.

Batching pilot

While the model for bundling new-build and remediation applications for accelerated assessment through specialised engineering suppliers remains under evaluation, initial data confirms that processing times are significantly faster than under previous methods.

In-house teams are continuing to manage most new-build applications, using batching only for supplemental support. Indeed, this strategy is now a core component of the BSR’s overall workflow and continues to drive the resolution of cases.

Charlie Pugsley, acting CEO of the Building Safety Regulator, explained: “We continue to witness improvements in terms of the numbers of decisions being made for new-build applications and also the numbers of safe homes being made available for the future. We continue to engage even more closely with applicants to help improve the quality of those applications. That continues to drive tangible results that will make a real difference.”

Pugsley continued: “However, we recognise that current determination times are falling short of our targets for remediation. Our Remediation Improvement Plan, which will be formally announced and rolled-out operationally over the coming weeks, represents a targeted package of focused measures to reset the system.”

In conclusion, Pugsley noted: “Speed can never come at the cost of safety, whether that be for new-build or existing homes. Our goal continues to be to ensure that industry can construct safe buildings and residents can see the essential safety improvements they deserve without unnecessary delays.”

*Building Control approval application data to 25 February 2026

PAS 2000 Construction Products – Bringing Safe Products to Market – Code of Practice, which is sponsored by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), sets a practical framework for construction product manufacturers to adopt to demonstrate that they’ve taken reasonable steps to best ensure the products they place on the market are safe for their intended use.

As referenced, the Code of Practice was developed following recommendations contained within the pages of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry final report in addition to the final document produced as a result of the extensive Morrell/Day Independent Review of the Construction Products Testing Regime (entitled Testing for a Safer Future). Further, it responds directly to the Government’s programme of regulatory reform for construction products, which saw the launch of the Construction Products White Paper on 25 February.

Aligning with Recommendation 3.3 of the Morrell-Day Review, which called for industry collaboration with BSI to produce guidance, PAS 2000 illustrates the due diligence expected when placing a construction product on the market.

The PAS aims to help organisations demonstrate robust product safety governance, embed clear and proportionate due diligence processes, improve transparency and accountability and align with evolving regulatory expectations. It’s purpose-designed to strengthen confidence across supply chains that products will be safe for their intended use.

Clear commitment

Ian Richardson, sector lead at the BSI, commented: “This publication reflects our clear commitment to responding constructively to the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and the Morrell-Day Review, and to supporting safety across the built environment.”

Richardson added: “At a time of significant regulatory reform, PAS 2000 has been developed to support greater transparency, accountability and due diligence across the supply chain. By setting clear expectations and good practice, manufacturers and other economic operators should be empowered to embed robust product safety governance and align with evolving regulatory requirements. We encourage organisations across the built environment sector to engage with PAS 2000 and support its adoption.”

Launch event

The BSI is hosting a launch event in London on 10 March, which will explain the background to the development of PAS 2000, outline the structure, content and practical benefits of the standard, clarify how organisations can implement the framework and provide an opportunity for questions and industry engagement.

The event will include speakers from the OPSS and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government in addition to Dr Hywel Davies OBE, the technical author for PAS 2000.

*Further information is available to view online at https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/construction-products-bringing-safe-products-to-market-code-of-practice

The report, entitled What is the Cost of Fires in Schools?, finds that six-to-seven school fires occur every week, damaging classrooms, displacing pupils and disrupting communities. Over a 30‑year period, the likelihood of a secondary school experiencing a fire reaches the 70% mark.

Analysis shows the average cost of a school fire is circa £282,200, with total annual losses reaching a figure of £126 million. These numbers exclude the wider human and social impacts, including trauma, lost coursework and the disruption faced by vulnerable pupils.

Government data cited in the report shows that each lost day of education reduces a child’s future lifetime earnings by approximately £750. The research concludes that, in secondary schools, a single day of closure is enough to justify the cost of installing sprinklers.

The evidence presented on sprinkler performance is equally clear. It emerges that upwards of 97% of school fires occur in buildings without sprinklers, while sprinkler systems that activate are 98% effective at extinguishing or otherwise controlling fires.

BB 100: Design for Fire Safety in Schools

In recent years, the NFSN has observed a decline in the number of new-build school premises being constructed with fire sprinklers as developers move away from the expectation of the primary guidance (ie BB 100: Design for Fire Safety in Schools) and ‘sidestep’ the provision of sprinklers on the grounds of perceived cost-effectiveness.

The research finds that if the non-monetised benefits (eg reductions in stress, disruption to education and environmental effects) of installing sprinkler systems into new secondary school buildings are £460 per pupil per year, the costs of installing sprinkler systems are equal to the benefits. This figure is less than the lost future earnings of one pupil missing one day of school.

A Case Study of Ravensdale Infants School in Derbyshire is included within the report and illustrates the extent of the challenges faced by pupils, staff and parents alike in relation to the substantial effects of a devastating fire.

Preventing devastation

Terry McDermott QFSM MA, secretary of the NFSN, explained: “Every week, schools are impacted by fire and every closure harms children’s learning in addition to community stability. Sprinklers work. They’re cost‑effective and prevent devastation. Protecting school buildings and the pupils and teachers within them isn’t an option. It’s essential.”

On the back of the research report, the NFSN is urging central Government and education authorities to strengthen regulations and ensure that sprinklers are included as standard in all new and refurbished school buildings.

*Further information is available online at www.nfsn.uk

**Organisations who contributed to the research document include the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association, the National Fire Chiefs Council, the European Fire Sprinkler Network, the Business Sprinkler Alliance and the International Fire Suppression Alliance

Membership of the FPA supports fire safety professionals in their roles by providing access to comprehensive fire safety advice, guidance and resources, including Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and education opportunities aimed at improving competence.

The 2025-2026 review reflects “a pivotal year” in which the FPA strengthened its commitment to equipping fire safety professionals with the technical advice, research insights and training necessary for making the built environment a safer place.

Dr Gavin Dunn, CEO at the FPA, commented: “The Membership Review highlights the FPA’s unwavering focus on ensuring that every member, whether an individual practitioner or a larger organisation, has the guidance and tools required to support them with the challenges they face on a daily basis. The breadth of new material and opportunities made available in 2025 demonstrates our continued commitment to raising standards across the sector.”

Key highlights

Following member feedback, last year the FPA refreshed its membership scheme and introduced three simpler category types to ensure organisations of all sizes can access the right level of technical advice and guidance resources.

The launch of the revitalised scheme also introduced new benefits to support members with collaborative opportunities for influence and engagement, as well as ongoing CPD.

Expansion of fire safety guidance

Throughout 2025, members received priority access to a wide range of new and updated publications, including:

*Sprinkler System Service and Maintenance: Guidance, Records and Checklists

*Sprinkler System Service and Maintenance Checklists: Appendix Template Forms

*Business Continuity for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

*Security Bulletin: ECHO Alarm Transmission Challenges and Solutions

*RC69: Risk Control Recommendations for Onshore Wind Turbines

*Need to Know Guide RE6: Wind Turbines

*The Joint Code of Practice on the Protection from Fire of Construction Sites and Buildings Undergoing Renovation: Tenth Edition Incorporating Amendments 1 and 2

*RC70: Recommendations for Risk Control for Switchgear and Transformers

*What Does Good Look Llike in Business Continuity Management?

*BDM30: Elements of Construction (EoC) – An Insurer’s Overview

Member influence

Membership of the FPA provides opportunities to contribute towards current and upcoming FPA guidance, research conducted by the FPA for insurers, Government, regulators and the industry and FPA responses to Government/sector consultations.

In 2025, FPA members were able to share their views on the Building Safety Regulator to inform the House of Lords Inquiry into Building Regulations, suggest topics for the FIRE Conference 2025 programme, provide feedback on all new and updated documents released in 2025 and propose areas for new FPA guidance and research designed to help shape the future of fire safety.

Expanded CPD and learning opportunities

In 2025, the FPA delivered a packed programme of CPD-approved webinars covering legislative updates, passive fire protection, insurance risk, research developments and other critical topics.

Members also gained access to a suite of introductory e-courses designed to strengthen awareness of roles, responsibilities and Best Practice in the areas of hot works, the role of a fire warden, the basics of fire door inspections and Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPS).

Membership Code of Professional Conduct

In the interest of improving competence and the wider sharing of expert advice and guidance, FPA membership is open to all with a remit for fire safety. The FPA membership scheme introduced a Code of Professional Conduct following the launch of the new categories and member benefits.

While membership doesn’t accredit or endorse member products or services in any way, all new and renewing members are now required to commit to the FPA Membership Code of Professional Conduct, which sets out the expectation for the behaviour of members in the areas of integrity, professional behaviour and professional competency.

Outlook for 2026

The Membership Review previews “an ambitious programme” for 2026. This includes a wide-ranging webinar schedule and extensive research projects conducted through the RISCAuthority research scheme and covering active fire protection, timber construction, moisture management, hybrid buildings, SMART towers and emerging risks.

Members will also have the opportunity to contribute towards FPA responses to several upcoming Government consultations.

Speaking on the publication of the review, James Stone (membership and marketing manager at the FPA) noted: “Given the significant changes to the fire safety landscape, it’s more important now than ever before that we support members and ensure we’re meeting their needs. Their feedback shaped our refreshed membership categories, influenced new guidance and steered our research priorities. The expanded access to technical resources showcased in this review is a direct result of our ongoing dialogue with members.”

*Access copies of the 2025-2026 FPA Membership Review

TICA has received “multiple complaints” regarding non-specialists installing thermal insulation to pipework and ductwork on HRBs, with reports of flammable products being used instead of specification-compliant materials and sub-standard workmanship causing overheating and condensation issues.

As a result, the Trade Association is preparing to launch TICA Assured: a new independent certification body that will deliver UKAS-accredited audits for thermal insulation contractors, thereby helping TICA members in demonstrating competence to their supply chain.

One recurring concern is that some M&E contractors are undertaking thermal insulation works in-house without engaging appropriately qualified specialist contractors.

For its part, TICA states that the growing use of polyethylene pre-insulated pipework in communal areas of HRBs is of particular concern as there’s “a lack of clarity” concerning the reaction to fire testing and certification for many products on the market.

Case for compliance

Chris Ridge, technical director at TICA, explained: “The client, principal designer and principal contractor all have duty holder roles on HRBs. For the duty holder, the case for compliance is only as strong as the weakest specialist sub-contractor employed on a project.”

Ridge continued: “All too often, M&E contractors are assuming their own organisational capabilities when it comes to the selection and installation of thermal insulation. In many cases, this has led to the selection of flammable products instead of specification-compliant ones, not to mention poor workmanship leading to issues such as overheating and condensation.”

Further, Ridge stated: “We should expect better for our residential sector. Initiatives like the BESA Pledge show us that there’s a way forward. Leading M&E contractors are beginning to appreciate the value of managing competence within their own supply chain. This needs to be recognised by their clients as well.”

Checking process

TICA is clear that responsibility sits with the duty holder to verify organisational capability across the supply chain, including thermal insulation specialists. The organisation asserts that the duty holder should also check the skill cards for all workers on site.

“With the exceptions of domestic plumbing (in dwellings) and commercial refrigeration using flexible foams,” noted Ridge, “all thermal insulation should be carried out by a thermal insulator with the appropriate TICA Construction Skills Certification Scheme skills card, not by a labourer and not by someone with a card appropriate to plumbing, ductwork or any other trade.”

In conclusion, Ridge informed Fire Safety Matters: “There’s a reason why large multi-occupancy buildings have been designated as HRBs. We can do better than this, but we need to start with greater collaboration between duty holders and the various construction sector specialist Trade Associations. Let’s work together to pave a better way forward.”

*Further information is available online at www.tica-acad.co.uk

The Construction Products Reform White Paper sets out that all products must be properly assessed before being used in the building process. Currently, only around one-third of constructions products are regulated. The new general safety requirement will mean that all products undergo the proper checks, not only keeping people safe in their homes, but also boosting the economy and providing confidence to developers to build the 1.5 million homes outlined by the Government as being desperately needed.

The Government has published a consultation on this requirement, with secondary legislation expected later this year and all changes coming in as soon as Parliamentary time allows.

The proposals come as the Government publishes the first Annual Report on the implementation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations, which sets out that 12 recommendations (including bringing Government fire safety functions under the control of one department and Secretary of State) have been completed. Over 40 (70%) of the recommendations are also expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry, which delivered its final report in September 2024, set out 58 recommendations, of which 37 were directed at the Government and 21 at other bodies and institutions.

The Government has also introduced the Grenfell Tower Memorial (Expenditure) Bill, providing the appropriate spending authority to support the creation and long-term management of a fitting and lasting memorial, a second site where the Grenfell Tower will be laid to rest and an archive and permanent exhibition.

Making progress

Housing Secretary Steve Reed said: “The Grenfell Tower fire was a tragedy that must never be repeated. Everyone should feel safe in their home. We are making progress on implementing the Inquiry’s recommendations, but there’s more to do as we continue to learn and act on the mistakes of the past.”

Samantha Dixon (Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy) stated: “We will never forget the tragedy of Grenfell and will continue working with the local community, industry and local authorities to deliver safer homes and lasting change. The failings outlined by the Inquiry Panel exposed fundamental issues in product, building and fire safety standards. Through the Construction Products White Paper, and our work to implement all of the recommendations of the Inquiry Panel, we will create a better system for millions of people right across the country.”

Interim chief construction advisor Thouria Istephan explained: “We must never forget the loss of 72 innocent lives and the impact the tragedy continues to have on the Grenfell community. The Government’s announcements highlight the important ongoing work to reform and improve the complex regulatory system. We must strive to continue to make lasting and progressive change that improves the safety and quality of both new and existing buildings and, crucially, place people who live and work in buildings at the very centre of our thought process.”

Key developments

Key progress and developments on wider-reform and the implementation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations include: 

*the establishment of the independent Building Safety Regulator to ensure a consistent approach towards building regulation and enforcement (this paves the way for the creation of a single construction regulator, a key recommendation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry) 

*strengthening of the building safety rules, including the design, construction and management of buildings 

*improvements in professional standards across construction, fire engineering, Building Control and fire risk assessment with new bodies to drive Best Practice, including specialist training for 1,200 workers across the sectors 

*greater support for residents, with more than 4,500 accessing training on how to exercise their rights and hold their landlord to account and rights information through Government-funded programmes

*the acceleration of remediation (with over 180,000 residents benefiting from remediation work having started or been completed across 2,100 buildings)

*stronger enforcement against those who put people at risk through unsafe buildings, with local regulators issuing 124% more formal notices and 140% more inspections by the end of June 2025 when compared to the period prior to departmental funding

The Metropolitan Police Service has been investigating the Grenfell Tower tragedy since June 2017. This is one of the largest and most legally complex investigations ever conducted by the force, with around 180 officers and staff dedicated to the investigation. The Government is clear that those responsible must be held to account and fully supports the Metropolitan Police Service in this important work.

The BESA’s Clients’ Guide to the Building Safety Act 2022 is a direct response to growing concerns that many clients are still basing their procurement decisions primarily on cost and speed of delivery, while avoiding their legislative responsibilities to improve safety and sustainability.

Published late last year, the BESA’s own research highlighted the fact that many clients were either unaware of or otherwise choosing to ignore their legal responsibilities under the Building Safety Act.

The new guidance sets out clients’ legal duties and emphasises their leadership role in the industry transformation needed to keep all building occupants safe and protect their long-term health and well-being. It reiterates the core message that the new building safety regime applies to all buildings, not just higher-risk structures or high-rise residential developments.

Importantly, the document also boils down the complexity of the legislation into simplified guidance using plain English and avoiding the overload of information that can lead to important messages being misunderstood or ignored.

Timely reminder

Jon Vanstone (chair of the Industry Competence Committee, which advises the Building Safety Regulator) feels the BESA’s guidance serves as a timely reminder of the central role clients play in delivering compliant and safe buildings.

“The Building Safety Act places clear legal duties on clients,” affirmed Vanstone. “They set the tone for projects through their procurement decisions, appointments and allocation of resources. If those duties are taken seriously and supported by competent appointments and informed oversight, the quality and safety of outcomes will improve. If they’re not, no amount of downstream control can fully compensate.”

Vanstone added: “Guidance that helps clients to understand both their statutory responsibilities and the practical implications of those responsibilities is therefore welcome, particularly so where it aligns with the Building Safety Regulator’s Principles for Informed Clients and supports consistent cross-industry understanding.”

The BESA’s document defines ‘Who is the client?’ and the legal requirements of that role. It sets out the client’s duties and how they can ensure their projects remain compliant at every stage, while also focusing on the potential consequences of failure. The guide explains the specific rules and processes required for higher-risk buildings and how to avoid common problems.

What good looks like

“This is a practical guide designed to help clients navigate the building safety process,” outlined Rachel Davidson, the BESA’s director of specialist knowledge. It’s intended to educate, not intimidate by explaining what good looks like so that clients can make better and safer procurement decisions that also make sense for their businesses.”

Further, Davidson observed: “By following the information in the guide, clients can reduce project risks and avoid costly mistakes that could lead to expensive delays and re-designs.”

Davidson added that the guide will also help contractors and other supply chain members explain some of the key elements of the legislation to their clients and emphasise the importance of only appointing competent individuals and companies to work on their projects.

“It should also afford contractors the confidence to challenge decisions and point out errors in procurement that can compromise safety and quality,” concluded Davidson. “Contractors are duty bound under the legislation to refuse to start work unless they are wholly satisfied that the client is fully aware of their responsibilities.”

Lilly Gallafent, CEO of the Cast real estate consultancy, explained: “Change needs to start with clients. While many already do, clients all need to recognise that they have the power to drive a new culture through their supply chains, but they need to be willing to allocate risk fairly and focus on how their decisions will affect the operational life of their buildings.”

Meaningful and lasting change

Gallafent also said: “Pushing hard for cost savings at the start of a project can, when not managed appropriately, end up being very expensive in the long run. Risk needs to be properly assessed and not just pushed down the supply chain. This excellent new guide reminds us that this is a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity to bring about meaningful and lasting change to construction procurement for the benefit of the industry and all building users.”

The Chartered Institute of Building has also welcomed the guide, which highlights some of the key issues contained in the organisation’s own Client Guide. Linda Stevens (head of client development) observed: “The Building Safety Act 2022 places responsibilities on both clients and their contractors. For many clients, we hear that it can be a struggle to come to terms with exactly what they’re required to do by law.”

Stevens concluded: “Among other important subjects, our own Client Guide includes information on building safety. We very much welcome this additional resource from BESA, which can help clients in their understanding of the legislation. It can only be through everyone conforming to the Building Safety Act that we will ensure the built environment is safe for every community.”

Strong support

The BESA Clients’ Guide to the Building Safety Act is supported by Constructing Excellence, the Chartered Institute of Building, the Construction Clients’ Leadership Group, the Cast Consultancy, SFG20, the Industry Competence Steering Group, Ackroyd Lowrie and the Safety & Health Engineering Partnership.

The guide, which can be downloaded for free, will also be the focus of a special building safety briefing event to be held at the Palace of Westminster on 5 May.

Throughout the week, the IFE is spotlighting its Chartered Engineers (CEng) from across the globe through social media. The campaign celebrates individuals’ achievements and demonstrates how this stream of professional registration empowers individuals to lead, inspire confidence and shape a safer future for all.  

Tracy Pang, an IFE member and Chartered Engineer, has worked as a fire engineer internationally and describes achieving chartered status as a key career milestone. “Being able to use the post-nominals CEng is like a passport for my identity as a qualified fire engineer and allows me to work on projects globally. It provides a certain level of proof to my clients that I hold professional qualifications and they’ll recognise me as a qualified fire engineer.”  

Commenting on the campaign, Steve Hamm (CEO at the IFE) said: “We are delighted to celebrate Chartered Week and showcase some of the individuals who hold this status with us. Ensuring competence in addition to safe and ethical practice is vital throughout the whole engineering profession.”  

Hamm added: “It’s encouraging to see the increasing number of fire engineers choosing to become professionally registered and demonstrating their commitment to develop and apply their skills to protect people and the planet at this time of rapid social and technological change.”

Further, Hamm observed: “Becoming chartered is more relevant than ever to the expectations of society and is particularly important given the likelihood of new regulatory regimes for those who work as fire engineers.”

Theoretical knowledge    

Chartered Engineers offer the theoretical knowledge required to solve problems and develop techniques, alongside the successful application of that knowledge across complex engineering systems. They have proven their accountability, leadership, safety focus and overall commitment to professional engineering values.

Attaining CEng registration provides global recognition of expertise and demonstrates a high level of professional competence and commitment.

In order to progress an application and achieve CEng status, an individual must be able to meet the Engineering Council registration competence and commitment standards, which are assessed against the UK-SPEC. Further information is available online at www.ife.org.uk/Home/Membership/Professional-registration

Managed for fire professionals by fire professionals, the IFE aims to promote, encourage and improve the science, practice and professionalism of fire engineering. Visit www.ife.org.uk for additional details.

Technical Note TN-01/26 addresses the installation of cavity fire barriers and raises concerns about the increasing use of zero-compression products, which the Technical Committee believes present “a foreseeable long-term life safety risk” when used in structures subject to movement. The publication represents the first step in a broader programme of work aimed at raising awareness of long-term fire safety performance within masonry construction.

The Masonry Association’s Technical Committee brings together senior technical specialists from across the masonry supply chain, including brick and component manufacturers, fire barrier and insulation suppliers, façade contractors, structural engineers, warranty providers and training bodies. The Committee has been established to identify emerging technical risks within masonry construction, provide clear evidence-based guidance and help bridge the gap between laboratory testing and real-world building performance.

TN-01/26 represents the Committee’s first formal publication and signals a more proactive technical role for the Association.

The Association has confirmed that further Technical Notes and guidance documents will follow, forming part of an ongoing commitment to improve understanding of real-world building performance and lifecycle safety.

Not static systems

The Technical Note explains that, while zero-compression cavity barriers may achieve compliance in laboratory fire testing, buildings are not static systems. Structural frame shortening caused by creep and shrinkage, brickwork settlement, mortar movement, thermal expansion and construction tolerances can all increase cavity dimensions over time.

Barriers installed without positive compression rely entirely on perfect geometry at the point of installation. As movement occurs, even gaps of only a few millimetres may allow flame and hot gases to bypass the barrier. Given that these interfaces are concealed once construction is complete, such failures are not detectable through routine inspection, in turn potentially introducing significant life safety, liability and reputational risk.

The Technical Committee’s guidance states that fire safety performance must be considered over the full life of a building rather than solely at the point of laboratory tests. It recommends that horizontal and vertical cavity fire barriers are installed with compression (with a nominal minimum preload of 5 mm unless greater compression is justified by manufacturer testing) in order to maintain contact and integrity under long-term movement conditions.

Senior technical representatives

The Technical Committee is chaired by Keith Aldis of MAGB and brings together senior technical representatives from across the full masonry supply chain. Its membership spans brick and component manufacturing, stone and GRC, mortar and structural systems, cavity barriers and insulation, damp-proofing and membranes, fixings, installation specialists, engineering, warranty providers and education and training bodies. This breadth of expertise ensures that guidance is technically rigorous and grounded in practical site experience.

Keith Aldis commented: “This Technical Committee has been formed to bring senior technical expertise from across the masonry sector into one forum with a clear purpose: to identify emerging risks and provide practical and evidence-based guidance to the industry.”

Aldis continued: “Our first Technical Note (ie TN-01/26) reflects our collective assessment of how buildings behave in reality over time. Laboratory fire testing is conducted under controlled conditions, but real structures are subject to settlement, shrinkage and differential movement. Positive compression in cavity fire barriers is fundamental to maintaining contact and continuity as that movement occurs. Our guidance is intended to support long-term fire integrity and promote durable and movement-tolerant solutions across the sector.”

In conclusion, Aldis noted: “This publication is the first in a series of Technical Notes intended to support long-term fire integrity and promote movement-tolerant and durable solutions across the sector.”

*Copies of TN-01/26 are available online at www.masonryassociation.co.uk