"fire"

City Tower, a private apartment tower block located in Canary Wharf required a new high performance waterproofing system as the existing single ply roof had been damaged beyond repair due to a fire. To provide a cost effective, long term waterproofing solution, Proteus Waterproofing specified a Hybrid Tapered Insulation Scheme with a Proteus Pro-Felt® finish, meeting the client’s specific requirements.High Performance WaterproofingAs the existing roof was beyond repair, it needed be completely stripped. Pro-Prime® SA and Proteus Pro-Felt® Self Adhesive Underlay were used as a vapor control layer. Proteus Pro-Therm EPS and Proteus Pro-Therm PIR were used for the Hybrid Tapered Insulation Scheme and bonded using Pro-Bond Foaming Adhesive. Proteus Pro-Felt® 3mm Plain Underlay was then fully adhered to the insulation, followed by a final installation of Proteus Pro-Felt® Ultima Plus Fireguard. Proteus Waterproofing worked closely with the Proteus Approved Contractor to ensure the project was delivered to a high standard.Health & SafetyWhen working on residential buildings, safety is always of utmost importance. Proteus Pro-Felt® Ultima Plus Fireguard has the highest European Fire Rating, BROOF(t4), making it the ideal felt to use on residential properties as the risks to operatives, building occupants and members of the public are greatly reduced. All Proteus Waterproofing specifications promote fire safe installation methods conforming to the industry lead Safe2Torch guidelines.Long Term PerformanceProteus Pro-Felt® Ultima Plus Fireguard is a high-performance multi-layer bituminous membrane system, tested to perform in extreme temperatures and weather conditions. It has class leading modified bitumen content which allows the flexible membrane to move with the building and ensure long term durability and performance. It is certified by the BBA to be in excess of 30 years, and had the highest European Fire Rating – BROOF(t4).

Electricity House, Crest Nicholson Homes’ stylish city centre apartment development in Bristol is using an advanced smoke ventilation system from leading smoke and natural ventilation specialist, SE Controls, to help keep residents safe if a fire should occur.

A £52 million student accommodation development in Coventry is using smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (SHEV) systems from SE Controls to enhance fire safety by providing smoke free escape routes for almost 1000 students living at Paradise Student Village.

A new 1000 seat multi purpose entertainment and sports centre at Holy Rosary School in Johannesburg is using precision automatic window actuators and control systems from Durban based SE Controls Africa, to provide effective smoke ventilation in the event of a fire.

Speedwell Baths were originally opened in 1937, and quickly became a beloved recreational spot for hundreds of Bristol City dwellers for more than 7 decades. Unfortunately, in 2005, Bristol City Council made the decision for the Baths to close. Subsequently, the site remained abandoned for several years until their demolition in 2019.This paved the way for a new five-storey complex comprising 31 affordable homes, featuring a mixture of 1 & 2 bedroom apartments.This signifies the successful conclusion of a vital revitalization initiative for the local community, bringing much-needed affordable housing to Bristol. PARTNERSHIPThe architectural design for this development was entrusted to Angus Meek Architects, a Bristol based firm, who worked alongside Bristol City Council & property developer, Crossman Homes, to bring the project to fruition.HAG Ltd was successfully awarded the contract & crucial responsibility of delivering security and fire protection door solutions throughout the five-story building, leveraging our expertise and track record. THE PROJECTWork on site began in 2019, starting with the dramatic demolition of the historic swimming pool and the building was eventually completed & handed over to Abri Housing Association in January 2022.The front of the building is designed as an "art moderne" style but incorporating elements of art deco detailing from the original Baths, demonstrating that the development has been thoughtfully designed to enhance the area, reflecting the style & shape of the existing building in a contemporary way.HAG Ltd. were delighted to have been chosen to work on such ground-breaking local development and were keen to assist in the design & installation of high-end security & fire protection products that could aesthetically compliment the design & style of the building.Steel doorsets are versatile, can provide high levels of security, as well as fire protection tested to BS EN 1634, and offer excellent value for money. Bespoke options that were utilised on his project, were louvered doors, communal doors & insurance certified doors, which conform to LPS1175.Louvered doors allow for bi-directional airflow, a medium level of security and can be fully customisable to meet your specification. This was key in this project, to allow ventilation to various secure plant rooms across the site and offer a bespoke colour option, so doors can blend seamlessly into their surroundings.In a busy City complex of 31 apartments, secure yet robust communal entrance doors are a necessity to allow for a high level of pedestrian traffic throughout the day. Double glazing panels allow for through vision and locking systems can be adapted to include access control.Our Fireguard Fire Resisting steel doors gave Speedwell Baths fire protection & high levels of security. Fire protection can be guarantee from 60 to 240 minutes and these doors are certified to BS EN 16034. HAG Ltd. hold the CERTIFIRE certification as well as being FIRAS installation certified – one of only a few installers in the UK to hold such a highly sought after accolade. Sean Gill, management company manager at Abri, one of the largest housing providers in the south, said: “Our new development on the Speedwell Swimming Baths sites will provide further much-needed affordable housing in the city."

Since the Grenfell tragedy in 2016, there has been an increased focus on fire-safety compliance in all communal buildings. This focus sharpened even more when, early in 2018, the media unearthed evidence of some non-compliant products having been installed there, including internal fire doors that had been fitted without smoke seals. As a result, there has been heightened attention on every aspect of safety, not least on fire doors. Fire officers and building management personnel understandably want to ensure they have covered every possible safety angle.To this end, they are now often insisting on going beyond the specifications required by regulations.However, in trying to ensure doors provide the maximum protection against fire and smoke, another potential problem can arise that, if not addressed, can undermine those good intentions.The problem:One of our customers, a door manufacturer and installer, had recently supplied doors but then been informed by their customer that they were not successfully self-closing as they were meant to. The assumption was that the door closer was not performing correctly, so the ‘fault’ was relayed to Rutland with a request for a resolution. We agreed to visit the site swiftly to assess the situation. Our inspection found that the door closer was correctly specified for the width and weight of the door, but that the smallest possible door gaps had been specified. These, coupled with substantial smoke seals around the doors, were causing significant resistance to the doors closing. Although the resistance was due in part to the physical aspects of the small gaps and the seals, the main problem was actually the build-up of differential air pressures on either side of the doors.Given the increased focus on maximum fire defence at doorways on all new-builds and building refurbishments, this problem is arising ever more frequently. Tighter door seals have the effect of creating separate, near air-tight pockets within a building, each holding air at slightly different pressures. The bigger the building, the more such pockets and the greater the pressure differentials that can potentially build up.These pressure differentials can have a significant additional effect on the amount of force needed to close each door and must be taken into account when choosing and setting closers.The Rutland response:Rutland’s technical team attended the site as required to support the customer in achieving a solution, first to identify the issues with air pressures and then recommend and implement a solution to the problem.Initially, we made hinge and latch adjustments to the door sets to overcome some of the resistance. This proved to be insufficient to ensure all the doors correctly closed first time, so we advised upgrading to stronger door closers. This recommendation was supported by supplying the door manufacturer with relevant data from previous tests on an equivalent door set to verify the product’s suitability.The new closers were delivered to the site and our technical team remained on hand to provide extensive assistance with the installation. Rutland created a bespoke jig to aid the door manufacturer’s installers in fitting the replacement door closers, significantly cutting down the time it took to rectify the problem.Outcome and key learning points:The project was successfully brought back on track, to the full satisfaction of the property owner and the door set manufacturer. All doors now function as they should and are delivering the intended fire safety for all building occupants.This case highlights that, due to heightened protective sealing around doors, there is an increasing likelihood of air locks forming in buildings, which means that specifying of door closers cannot be based simply on weight and width of doors, as has traditionally been the case. The pressure differentials that result vary building by building, based on each one’s layout, so it necessitates careful assessment to ensure that appropriate closers are specified.

Four Formica® Laminates were specified for fire doors in Octavia House School, an independent specialist therapeutic school based in Essex, UK. Doors were designed for high traffic areas including classrooms, offices, toilets and communal spaces such as corridors and halls.

After considering various products, PABIA Consulting engineers chose FIRETITE as the ideal solution for upgrading the Newtown EUROSPAR building complex in Cobh, Co Cork. FIRETITE met the insulation requirements, fire regulations, and could be retrofitted externally with minimal disruption to tenants and customers.

Deansgate Square, one of Manchester’s highest profile city centre residential developments, is using mechanical smoke control and ventilation solutions from SE Controls to protect residents by keeping corridors, stairwells and escapes routes clear of smoke, should an apartment fire occur.

The smoke ventilation system at Matlosana Mall, shopping and entertainment centre in Kerksdorp, South Africa is using SE Controls’ window automation and control panel solutions to ensure it operates perfectly in the event of a fire, allowing smoke-free escape routes to be maintained for shoppers and staff.

Following a £15 million restoration of the Grade-II listed building, renovating and transforming the site, the UK’s largest casino and entertainment venue opened in 2012.Lorient supplied LAS8001 si automatic drop seals and DS acoustic, smoke and fire seals to this historic site.

Location: LondonMain Contractor: Berkeley Homes LtdWest End Gate is a mixed-use development by Berkeley Homes Ltd on Edgware Road in London W2, near the prestigious neighbourhoods of Marylebone and Little Venice.The development comprises 844 apartments (including 175 affordable), 8 shops and a restaurant, along with a new public plaza and improvements to Edgeware Road Junction.The full OBEX CORTEX Class A Through-Wall System has been specified on this project, including fire-classified Breather Membrane, Vapour Control Layer, Interface Sealing Membrane system, and the Score'N'Snap Cement Board system.With each OBEX product carrying a Class A fire-classification, it puts this façade installation by OCL Facades Ltd at the pinnacle of full compliance and highest performance.Residential Apartments: 844Buildings: 8Storeys: 29

We were approached to design & manufacture a range of steel fire-resistant riser doors and personnel doors for Europe's most advanced data centre, located in Canary Wharf, London.This 8-storey building offers 73,400 sqm of space - they needed simple yet secure riser doors to provide fire protection to the internal ducts, containing all the cabling and plumbing required in a sleek, discreet solution that provided maximum access, performance and safety.Alongside the riser doors, Eurobond designed & manufactured personnel doors that could be electronically controlled to control the access and provide an audit trail of personnel movement.The 2 key elements of this project were the riser doors - and the sheer volume required to cover the 8 levels and the access control requirements that had to be well planned and coordinated by Eurobond, the security contractor, end-user and architect.

One of Scotland’s most famous whisky distilleries is undergoing an ambitious redevelopment project in order to meet increased demand from overseas. The steelwork for the new build elements of the work are being given fire protection using Nullifire’s revolutionary new one coat intumescent SC902 system.

Cladding is being replaced on a flat block in Nottingham’s Hockley after it was found to contain similar insulation material as Grenfell Tower. Klasse G-board has been chosen as part of the re-clad project, especially for its A1 fire-rated, fully non-combustible properties.

Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf is a tourist attraction at Bournemouth Beach. The 18 hole course is part of Bournemouth’s famous seafront, which has over 7 million visitors per year. For safety purposes, it was necessary to fit Stair Nosings onto a fire exit staircase at the site.

C-TEC’s revolutionary new evacuation alert system, EVAC-ALERT, has been specified for a new purpose-built residential building in London.Located in the Elephant and Castle area of the London Borough of Southwark, Joyce Newman House is an 8-storey block of 40 spacious living spaces commissioned by Leathermarket JMB, Southwark’s largest resident-managed housing organisation. The affordable-housing development also features landscaped gardens, an interactive playground and a communal kitchen garden for residents to grow their own vegetables.Specified and supplied by Churches Fire & Security working alongside Blu Electrical Installations Ltd, C-TEC’s EVAC-ALERT has been designed to comply with the new BS 8629, which recommends evacuation alert systems be installed in all new blocks of flats over 18 metres to assist the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) in evacuating part or all of a building in an emergency.The system consists of a 2-loop control panel connected to a host of single and multi-way interface units, self-testing sounders and visual indicators. Simple and intuitive with manual controls to allow firefighters to easily operate the evacuation alert devices located inside flats on a zone by zone or floor by floor basis, the panel is stored in a secure vandal resistant cabinet which can only be accessed by the FRS using a special copy-protected key.David Collins, Project Manager at Churches Fire & Security, said: “Evacuation alert systems ensure firefighters can alert occupants in a building of the need to evacuate if a fire gets out of control. The EVAC-ALERT system we’ve specified provides peace of mind for residents and, crucially, also demonstrates that building management have taken every precaution possible to protect the people residing in the property. Our client is delighted with the system.”Certified to all relevant EN54 product standards, EVAC-ALERT is powered by C-TEC’s CAST protocol and fully compatible with ENVISION, its powerful new cloud-based remote access data management software which can be used to provide duty holders with a verifiable audit trail of system activity and device testing.

BackgroundLocated in the Ancoats area of Manchester, the Albion Works strip and re-fit project was funded by the Building Safety Fund, a Government Fund to remove unsafe non-ACM cladding on residential and mixed-use properties that are 18 metres and over and do not meet building safety regulations.K Systems Approved Installer QFF Façades were contracted to complete the exterior wall insulation and rendering of the 8-storey residential building.The original 60mm EPS system was stripped from the building and replaced with a safe, thermally efficient façade solution, which upgraded the fire performance of the cladding, ensuring the safety of both the building and residents.Our ServiceK Systems provided support throughout the application process for this Building Safety Fund project. The Technical team offered on-site technical and installation support throughout the build process and supported QFF to ensure quality and reliability.We produced a bespoke specification and worked closely with Thomason Consulting and QFF Façades to agree and deliver specifics such as fire stopping and abutment details.From design advice through to installation, we offered a partnership approach which aided a smooth installation process with minimal disruption.Technical Project DetailsThe original sheathing boards were replaced, and the K Systems Exicco M drained cavity façade system was installed. This high performing drained cavity system was specified as a requirement for this steel frame residential building. 60mm mineral wool insulation was specified to retain the line of the existing façade.Fire safety with high rise buildings like Albion Works is of utmost importance and this solution generates high levels of fire resistance and non-combustibility (A2, s1-d0 rating), meaning the latest building regulations were complied with. Additionally, the thermal performance of the building improved with a U-value of 0.28 W/m²K being achieved. Residents will therefore enjoy reduced heating costs and better living conditions.For the finish, silicone thin coat render ensured that aesthetically Albion Works had a clean, crisp attractive appearance. This durable, low maintenance render transformed the outside of the building and will ensure a longlasting finish to the property.

Being positioned along The Highway, a major east-west route into central London, Ensign Court is a 14-storey high-rise build that symbolises the beginning of London’s heart, welcoming people into its urban core and existing as an important representation of its character.With this metropolitan embodiment in mind, the development is a statement of modernity and urbanity, requiring contemporary designs and cutting-edge materials to establish a framework of quality and character, to accompany its remarkable location.Project BreakdownHaving been previously occupied by commercial space, Ensign Court was rebuilt to offer 65 residential units designed to accommodate for affordable rent, shared ownership and private sale, as well as 7 units of new commercial space on the ground floor. To support its modern appeal, the project was intended for Class A use and therefore required an effective non-combustible balcony solution that would enhance its stylish aesthetic and ensure durability for the safety of its residents.The SolutionBeing compliant with the latest fire safety law, Hyperion Aluminium 145 Pro-Grip aluminium decking was used to furnish the 520 m² of balcony and terrace areas on this build, complete with fire-rated edging, joists, pedestals and screws. This beautifully engineered A2 fire-rated aluminium decking board was used in the colour Dusty Grey, perfectly fitting the contemporary aesthetic of the Ensign Court build with elegance, simplicity and style. With market-leading value and Qualicoat certified power coating, this non-combustible decking system was the ideal addition to this exquisite development, offering assured safety, high slip resistance and refined aesthetics.EnviroBuild will continue to push towards the ever-improving innovation of non-combustible systems, and strive to lead the rise of safer, fire-rated solutions for both commercial and residential construction.Project DetailsSize: 520 m²Product: Dusty Grey Hyperion 145 Pro-Grip, MESA Non-combustible Pedestals, MESA Aluminium Joists, Aluminium Edging, MESA Protective Membranes, Screws, FastenersContractor: ENGIEArchitect: Maccreanor LavingtonDeveloper: L&QLocation: London

The new energy efficient Agrivaal building in Pretoria’s Tshwane Central Business District is using advanced natural ventilation and smoke control solutions from SE Controls Africa to maintain a comfortable indoor environment while improving safety by ensuring escape routes are smoke free in the event of a fire.

A higher quality of assisted livingProviding a higher standard of care for elderly residents, this purpose-built care home in Stirling, Scotland, has been designed to accomodate 65 residents in a relaxed, luxurious setting. Every aspect of the design was focused on avoiding an ‘institutional’ feel that might be regarded as typical of care environments, and instead achieve a desirable place to live with tasteful design features and creature comforts.We were delighted that Rutland closers were selected for the building’s fire-rated doors. One of the selected finishes, Antique Brass, is often chosen from our wide range, as it has proven popular in luxury care homes for its premium aesthetic, and the more homely feel that it provides.Life safety in fine formOur underlying purpose is to enhance life safety at every fire door. But we always say that maintaining life safety doesn’t have to diminish the aesthetic of an environment. Our tried, tested and certified door closer models are available in the widest range of finishes, making it perfectly possible to protect lives and enhance quality of life.65 - Luxuriously-appointed roomsFD30/60 - Fire-rated doors2x Premium closer models specified in two designer finishesTS.9205: Key features+ 15 finishes in stock+ Universal application+ Adjustable power size EN2-5+ Tested to BSEN1154 and EN1634-1+ Assists BS8300 for Doc M contracts+ CE and UKCA marked+ 35 year guarantee

The modern hotel is just one of several new developments being constructed, as the existing town centre is being physically moved and relocated a few miles away.Working with Glasfasader Norr AB, we supplied our Pyroguard Protect toughened fire safety glass throughout the hotel’s internal atrium.

An ambitious £37.5 million Littleport complex comprising special educational needs (SEN) and primary schools, an Academy and a leisure centre. Rockfon ceilings, baffles and wall panels are installed throughout. Rockfon products were chosen because they offer excellent sound control, Class A1 fire safety and durability.

Berkeley Homes’ flagship Woodberry Park apartment development in North London is using an advanced smoke and natural ventilation system from SE Controls to not only provide protection for residents in the event of a fire, but to also create a better environment by actively managing any excessive heat build up in corridors.

Ahmarra Door Solutions manufactured over 200 fire doors for the Pears Building, which is situated next to the Royal Free Hospital in London.The FD30 and FD60 doorsets incorporated Halspan Optima door blanks.The Pears Building will accommodate the UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation. This is a state-of-the-art medical research centre which will advance the understanding of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, HIV, and tuberculosis, and for traditional and tissue-developed transplants.Designed by Hopkins Architects and constructed under main contractor, Willmott Dixon, the building’s seven-storey structure includes laboratory space, research facilities, offices and two levels of patient accommodation, which will enable people undergoing clinical trials to rest and recover there.Designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent, sustainability was at the heart of the building’s creation. As such, Ahmarra Door Solutions used Halspan as all Halspan fire door blanks are made from FSC® certified timber.Photography courtesy of Cannon Photos Ltd.

Peregrine Bryant were appointed to design a scheme for Stationers Hall to improve access and rationalise the internal layouts to enhance the building as a function space. The building, located near St Paul’s Cathedral, has a history that stretches back to before the Great Fire of London and any work requires a lot of co-ordination as parts of the complex range from Grade I listed to Ancient Scheduled Monuments.3v were asked to provide a full hardware service for this historic building which included scheduling all new and existing doors, rationalising ironmongery throughout and undertaking a full review of fire requirements. All new ironmongery was finished in antique brass with the exception of the toilet areas which use a split finish of antique brass externally and satin stainless steel internally. The main task was to ensure there was more continuity in the ironmongery used throughout the building so that it complimented both the aesthetics of the building and the function as an events space.

The White City project consists of a 35 storey tower and two 19 storey towers. Two of the buildings are set within a lagoon water feature which cascades towards the lower landscaped gardens surrounding the site. The project is due for completion in 2022. The development will provide 526 private apartments.Quadra is the most complete high-performance metal riser doorsets.Perfect for concealing fire-rated riser doors, access panels, and internal doors in corridors, landings, and other access areas; Quadra+ is supplied as an integral, four-sided frame and door system, pre-constructed to form a single robust unit. Ideal for hidden commercial access solutions, Quadra+ is designed and manufactured to the highest standards.A design innovation – Quadra+ is the original riser doorset from Selo, now featuring an Adjustable Frame to enhance installation speed and fire compliance. The screw-operated adjuster bolts allow for simple and secure Quadra+ frame installation.

Architect: Faulkner Browns ArchitectsInstaller: Topfix InteriorsProduct: ‘Shiluvit’ by Oranit1000m2 of PEFC Certified Shiluvit panels from Oranit were installed to the ceilings of the swimming pool and gym areas at the new sports facility St John’s School in Leatherhead.Faulkner Brown Architects specified Yellow Pine panels with a white stain for the space, choosing 7-502 modules with 22mm wide by 45mm deep blades with 40mm gaps for impressive acoustic control.Oranit is a specialist ceiling solutions suitable for most installation areas. As standard it is impregnated for Euroclass B,s2-d0 for resistance to fire, achieving top results against surface spread of flames, smoke production, and flaming droplets or structural integrity in case of fire.Additionally for this installation the panels were lacquered for humidity resistance, this treatment provides additional protection to the wood against water damage and can also be used for panels being installed outside.

Kelly is a lifestyle writer whose popular blog, My Norfolk Home, covers home decor ideas & renovation inspiration. Kelly selected a Dimplex Grand Noir Opti-MystTM fire. The Grand Noir, is a beautiful electric stove, combining the classic feeling of a wood burning stove with modern electric functionality.

Dacatie's TFR Fire Rated Cavity Closers were used in this residential project by Willmott Dixon. The 133 homes come in a mix of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom houses, and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. It is part of the Bristol Mayor’s commitment to build 2,000 new homes, including 800 affordable, in the city.

Middlewood Locks is a prestigious 25-acre mixed-use regeneration scheme of Salford’s canal district. The first development phase included the construction of Quarry, an eight-storey building combining ground floor commercial space, luxury apartments and an undercroft car park for residents. It was the insulation for this car park that threw up a challenge for sub-contractor Horbury Building Systems. A complex underdrawing method had been specified, comprising the installation of timber battens, non-combustible mineral wool insulation and a separate soffit insulation over the top. Installation would be extremely labour-intensive, so Horbury Building Systems consulted Knauf Insulation about whether it could provide an alternative that would meet the thermal performance and fire safety requirements, but also be easy to install. Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team reviewed the specification and recommended 185mm Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra to achieve the required 0.18 W/m2K U-value.  Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra is a Rock Mineral Wool insulation slab bonded to a 6mm off-white weather resistant facing board which provides a two-in-one aesthetic and thermal solution. It has a low thermal conductivity of just 0.034 W/mK and is designed for use as an insulated underlining solution in semi-exposed environments. The off-white cementitious particle board reflects light which makes it ideally suited for use in car parks. As well as thermal performance, Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra is non-combustible. It has the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification, so it will not contribute to the development or spread of a fire should it occur. This is important because car parks can contain large quantities of a potential propellant – petrol. So the insulation will help to ensure the fire safety of the rest of the building.   Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra also has good sound absorption characteristics so it provides high levels of sound reduction. This reduces noise from the car park, minimising disruption for the people living and working in the premises above. As well as meeting the specification, Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra has been enhanced to add rigidity and is easy to install. The board is simply placed onto the concrete soffit and fixed into position with five drillscrews. This reduced the installation method from three separate phases to just one, saving Horbury Building Systems time and associated labour costs. Stephen Hampshire, Contracts Manager at Horbury Building Systems said: “We found the panels easy to install. Firstly, we marked and drilled the fixing points at bench level. Next, we held the panels in place to the underside of the concrete – although the panels are lightweight ‘this is a two-handed operation’ – then we drilled through and fixed.”  “We took care in lining the panels together when installing it against the soffit and with some minor tweaking up and down we got a nice flush finish.” Being able to align the panels exactly is not only important for ensuring a good finish. It also means that the slabs will butt tightly together, reducing unintended air gaps which can reduce thermal, fire safety and acoustic performance.  The insulation was supplied to the Middlewood Locks construction site by distributor Galaxy Insulation.  Thanks to Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra, the underlining of the car park at Middlewood Locks was easy to install, is aesthetically pleasing, and provides complete thermal, fire safety and acoustic performance.

Set to be the tallest building in Africa at 250-metres with 55 stories, Mohammed Tower IV is a new high-rise tower designed by Rafael de la Hoz & Hakim Benjelloun to resemble a rocket on its launch pad. The striking development will be visible from 50km in all directions and forms the centre piece in the Bouregreg Valley Development Project, which plays a leading role in the development programme for Rabat, ‘the City of Light,’ in the Moroccan Capital of Culture. Once complete, the project will provide a luxury hotel, commercial offices, high-end residential apartments, and a viewing sky terrace.The ChallengeSustainability and energy efficiency are both primary design considerations in this project, with the client aiming to achieve LEED Gold and HQE quality standards. LEED certification provides an independent guarantee of a building’s green features, with a LEED Gold rating representing first-class leadership in resource-efficient building design, construction, operations, and maintenance.Farrat were contacted via our export partner in the GCC region, UniGroup, to supply a high-performance, robust, and certified fire-resistant thermal break solution to mitigate against thermal bridging across façade connections for contemporary facade design company Glassline Abu Dhabi. Farrat Structural Thermal Breaks are favoured across the construction industry, as the most efficient & responsible way to thermally separate structural connections and prevent heat loss in the building envelope.The thermal breaks would form part of a wider sustainable construction program, alongside smart energy efficiency systems such as 3350 m² of photovoltaic solar panels on the South façade, rainwater recovery and wastewater recycling systems and an internal energy recovery system to produce hot water.The SolutionFollowing a review of the connection designs, Farrat TBF was selected as the optimal structural thermal break material for extensive use across the façade connections of Mohammed Tower, to prevent heat transfer through steel beams where the external building aspects meet the interior.Farrat TBF is an A2 rated non-combustible structural thermal break material capable of maintaining superior structural performance at temperatures more than 1000°C. Farrat TBF also provides high-level thermal performance to solve structural thermal bridge issues and exceeds all current fire regulatory requirements for buildings above (and below) 18m.Following several high-rise fire tragedies across the globe, increasing numbers of building designers are looking to go beyond the standard when it comes to fire safety.The DesignThe inherent non-combustible composition of Farrat TBF was the solution to the fire element of the design, allowing unrestricted use in the high-rise construction. Use of the material’s remarkably high compressive force resistance allowed Farrat to assess the transmission of loads through the structural connection, sufficient to maintain performance under influence from weather stresses.The Outcome“In designing and securing this high-performance project, Farrat utilised the full extent of our material research & development skills and harnessed our extensive experience of thermal bridging projects in all climates and circumstances around the globe,” states Chris Lister, Commercial Manager of Structural Thermal Breaks at Farrat.“The resulting construction details are to the highest levels of structural and fire safety performance whilst also being beautiful in their simplicity.”Structural Thermal Breaks with FarratFarrat Structural Thermal Breaks are favored across the construction industry, as the most efficient & responsible way to thermally separate structural connections and prevent heat loss in the building envelope.#onamission

Villa Wippermann in Halver, Germany is an old factory owner’s beautiful villa, originally belonging to the Wippermann family, built back in 1892. The old villa was renovated to serve as a regional museum and a cultural meeting place. The fire protection and heritage conservation requirements, in particular, presented a demanding challenge to the planners of the escape routes and escape staircases. Space-saving design was required, while creating a staircase system without any additional connection to the building (no transfer of forces into the historical building structure). The architectural appearance of the building also had to be preserved in the best possible way, and safe use by visitors had to be guaranteed in the event of an emergency.The criteriaThe client, City of Halver, involved experts, architects and engineers in the make-over of the museum. The project had a significant focus on safety in case of fire or other events that need safe evacuation. The parties involved required a spiral staircase as a fire escape solution, to be installed without causing any damage to the building.Minimum strainThe engineer and architect were both very aware of the fact that various environmental conditions such as wind and vibrations can cause too much load, leading to damage to the building.DesignAs stated in the project criteria, the architectural heritage of the building had to be preserved. This called for a safe but well-designed spiral staircase, fitting into the environment and to the unique architecture of the building and maintaining the appealing aesthetics of the Villa Wippermann museum.The solutionBased on these project criteria, PcP delivered a proposal that presented a safe and secure spiral staircase for the museum. The project architects and the planners from the building and heritage authorities accepted the proposal.Spiral staircase made of galvanised steelA complete spiral staircase system was designed and tailor-made to support the unique criteria of the project. A large steel pipe at the centre of the staircase provided solid support to the entire structure. A slim handrail system followed the spiral shape of the staircase. All details and products were made of galvanised steel, matching the architectural and aesthetical look of the building. The staircase links the historical building together with modern architecture.The staircase was designed by PcP and manufactured using modern industrial production methods, combined with handmade finishes and details.OPTIMO® steel treads and gratingsThe PcP OPTIMO® O3 spiral treads and gratings were used for treads and landings, providing safety in terms of optimal slip resistance, capacity and fire proofing. The high and certified slip resistance according to evaluation group R13/V10 and the limited views below allow even people with a fear of heights to walk safely. The surface of OPTIMO® O3 flooring delivers the very best drainage of liquids.The resultAs a result of the strong collaboration between architects, structural engineers and planners from heritage protection and fire protection, a safe, solid and aesthetically pleasing spiral staircase now compliments the museum.Today, Villa Wippermann museum stands as a harmonious building with a perfect balance between modern and old architecture in beautiful surroundings.

Fully compatible products from the range of TBA FIREFLY™ have been chosen to compartmentalise roof voids between apartments and communal lobbies of a large apartment building in the London Borough of Lewisham, providing 120 minutes fire integrity protection as part of a wide ranging refurbishment programme carried out earlier this year.The contract on Lewisham Homes’ Commodore Court in Albyn Road has been led by the sector specialist construction company, Mulalley & Co. with London/Sevenoaks based CLM Fireproofing carrying out the installation of the TITAN Lite™ 120:60 barrier system, in combination with Collaroll and the use of ancillary products from the FIREFLY™ range.CLM Fireproofing was founded 30 years ago by Clive Miles and has established a reputation as a leader in the fields of both passive fire protection and fire-stopping; working in a variety of sectors on projects right across the UK. A regular user of the FIREFLY™ range, many of its operatives have attended courses at the company’s premises in Rochdale to become trained FIREFLY™ installers.The Site Agent for CLM, Virginijus Pasvenskas, commented: “There was initially an intention to use a mineral wool flexible fire barrier, but the product was not tested for the scenario installed around the services such as a downpipe and it was upgraded to the use of the FIREFLY™ system by the client/project team. The installation of the TITAN Lite™ and the Collaroll to wrap the trusses and the services went very well and, as well as supplying specific details for the work, FIREFLY's technical team came to site to inspect the works. We completed our contract on schedule back in the summer.”TITAN Lite™ 120:60 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 120 minutes integrity and 60 minutes insulation and is able to be sealed around penetrations. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids and floor voids in many different property types, including tower blocks and other HMOs.The flexible woven material is easy to cut and fix, and is chemically treated to improve its cooling properties and therefore prevent temperatures rising in adjoining areas. The system has been fully tested to BS 476 Parts 20 & 22 and is third party certified by IFC. The six metre long rolls of TITAN Lite™ 120:60 have a minimum thickness of 6mm and are installed using special staples as well as high temperature adhesive.Employed as part of the FIREFLY™ System and also to wrap the services which penetrate barriers such as PHOENIX, ZEUS Lite™ and APOLLO Lite™, Collaroll comes in a roll which unwraps to 10m long x 300mm wide with a sewn in concertinaed skirt. The skirt can be moulded to shape to seal it neatly to the upright barrier, which is usually at 90 degrees to the Collaroll and fixed into place using the FIREFLY™ high temperature adhesive. The R31 Staple Gun and Staples are used to staple the Collaroll to itself tightly around the penetration.

OverviewThe UK’s first dedicated horticultural scientific centre of excellence has opened to the public – protecting the future of plants, people, and the planet at the iconic RHS Garden Wisley, situated in Woking, just 30 minutes outside London. RHS Hilltop has been dubbed The Home of Gardening Science, and at a cost of £35 million, is the largest ever investment in horticultural science. The site boasts 3 purpose-built laboratories, a herbarium and digitisation suite, learning studios & a teaching garden, interactive displays and a world class collection of horticultural exhibits across 3 gardens that brim with ideas that reflect the latest research. RHS Wisley’s library and archive contain rich and varied collections, including botanical art, 28,000 horticultural books & records, which places itself as the most complete record of the UK’s horticultural heritage. PartnershipHAG Ltd. were chosen by Geoffrey Osborne Ltd. to work on RHS Wisley’s impressive and forward-thinking purpose-built space to offer fire protection & security solutions across the site, including in the herbarium and café. With over 35 years of industry experience, and being well known for our quality, integrity, and reliability, we were the perfect choice to offer solutions to fire protection and security needs, meaning a more streamlined experience for the main building contractor. Andy Jasper, Programme Director of the Wisley Strategic Investment Programme:“We are so proud to announce the opening date of RHS Hilltop – The Home of Gardening Science. Working so closely and collaboratively with Contractors and Consultants was wonderful and together we have overcome the challenges of Covid-19. We would like to express our most sincere thanks to all the teams and individuals involved in this project who have worked so hard and with such passion and commitment.” The ProjectLike many new builds, RHS Hilltop used the very latest in environmentally friendly techniques in their build process. This included installing their own renewable energy sources, using high levels of insulation and astonishingly, 99% of waste during construction was recycled. The RHS Hilltop facility measures 4,750 square meters and was part of a wider 5-year transformation program at RHS Wisley. With an investment of £35 million, it is easy to see how seriously the Royal Horticultural Society are taking their legacy and setting themselves in good stead for scientific research in the future. HAG installed fire curtains and fire shutters across the site, which are essential to ensure safety and time to exit the buildings in the event of fire. Our insurance-certified roller shutters were supplied and fitted to their exacting standards and are fully covered by LPCB Certification, to give optimum security protection. We were pleased to be involved in such a stunning development and look forward to working with both Geoffrey Osborne Ltd and the RHS again in the future.

The Architects involved in the design of the new Marriott hotel at Aberdeen airport really understood the need for a solution for the kitchens which ticked all the boxes. Beplas’s Elite FRP was the product chosen to line the extensive kitchen areas because it holds the ultimate combination of fire rating, low smoke development, clean-ability and durability.