Passive fire protection specialist Promat has launched a new CPD focused on the challenges of correct specification and installation of passive fire protection in refurbishment and change of use projects.
Renovation projects can often involve complex, older, or mixed-material constructions, such as unknown concrete grades, listed building restrictions, or space and buildability constraints that can create a challenge in applying testing standards.
Structural integrity is also a key consideration where the condition of existing concrete and steel buildings is unknown or requires additional protection from potential fire damage.
It comes as fire safety compliance continues to come under increased scrutiny, with stakeholders needing to fully understand how to meet new standards and regulations.
The CPD explains the importance of structural protection and passive fire protection in meeting fire resistance requirements in line with Part B of the Building Regulations – setting out the need to ensure compliance when changing the use of a building.
This includes a focus on structural protection for concrete and steel framed buildings, timber floors, and the importance of using compartmentation when upgrading buildings to ensure a fire can be contained for a set period of time.
When exposed to high temperatures both concrete and steel structures can lose structural integrity. The use of passive fire protection provides protection for a set period of time, allowing the safe evacuation of the building and for firefighters to respond.
The CPD highlights solutions for a number of common challenges and signposts the extra support that is available from manufacturers, such as Promat, to demonstrate compliance and navigate the gap between testing and real-life application.
Joshua Slack, commercial director at Promat UK, said: “As a leading manufacturer of passive fire protection systems, Promat works closely with project teams, architects and fire engineers during the design stage of building projects to ensure the correct product is specified accurately to meet Part B of the Building Regulations.
“With space for new buildings often hard to find, especially in cities, and a growing awareness of the role renovation plays in supporting more sustainable building design, there is a clear demand for specialist knowledge in fire safety for property upgrades – and it is vital that this remains a priority in all building projects.
“This CPD addresses the complexities of providing passive fire protection for renovation and change of use projects to ensure fire safety is up to standard. It will equip participants with solutions for renovation-specific scenarios along with valuable insights and knowledge to accurately protect renovation projects.”
Challenges such as the interfacing of timber joisted floors with structural steel beams or columns are also discussed in the CPD, and how to preserve existing and decorative ceilings in listed buildings.
