fire safety and fire fighting in sustainable construction ife conference, russell hotel, london 22nd...

Fire Safety and Fire Fighting in Sustainable Construction

IFE Conference, Russell Hotel, London

22nd July 2010

Sustainable Buildings

Structures created using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle, This includes

•Siting,

•Design,

•Construction,

•Operation,

•Maintenance & Repairs and

•Renovation & Alterations

Managing Fire Safety and Firefighting in Sustainable Buildings

Managing Fire Safety in Buildings

• Close liaison with building designers and developers at an early stage.

• Ensuring that proper consideration is given to the impact the proposed construction will have on surrounding buildings.

• Working to ensure Fire Service access issues are understood.

Firefighting Considerations

Managing Fire Safety in Buildings

• Close liaison with building designers and developers at an early stage.

• Promoting the use and benefits of Sprinklers and other fire protection features to safeguard building and occupants.

• Good working relationships with planning departments and statutory bodies.

Underpinning Knowledge

• Understanding the performance characteristics of modern construction materials.

• Working closely with product manufacturers and industry bodies.

• Working with standards bodies and specifiers to ensure fire service perspective is understood.

Managing Fires In These Buildings

• Understanding the performance characteristics of modern construction materials.

• Recognising that these buildings may perform in differing ways from traditional buildings in a fire.

• Adapting operating procedures and decision making accordingly.

Managing Fire Safety in Buildings

• Controlled by HSE

• Still subject to a Fire Risk Assessment.

• Site safety and housekeeping paramount.

• Regard for neighbouring exposures and persons.

• Quality building control and signoff essential.

Firefighting Considerations

Ongoing Fire Safety Implications

• Working with HSE, UKTFA and ACAI to identify better management of site safety and security

• Identification and registration of every TF construction site in London.

• Multi agency Operational pre plans developed for all sites including evacuation of neighbouring residents.

Occupancy

• Whether commercial or residential, peoples safety is paramount.

• Good fire safety management systems ensure occupants safety.

• There are legal responsibilities for owners and managers to occupants.

Firefighting Considerations

Unprotected voids

Lack of cavity protection

Common Defects

Compartmentation and

fire stopping

Specifications and Approvals

• Ensuring the original design specifications are not compromised.

• All materials specified are fit for purpose used and meet specifications.

• Records kept of all planning and design changes.

• Quality Control and building control approvals received.

Specifications and Approvals

Thank you Any Questions