Study Shows That One in Ten Mid-Rise Buildings Requires Fire-Safety Upgrades
Commercial fire sprinkler systems are one of the most effective fire suppression methods available today. Yet, there are still mid-rise buildings in the UK that do not have these fire safety prevention systems in place. They are deemed “unsafe” in the case of a fire emergency. Having a fire sprinkler system is an ideal way of ensuring safety throughout a building, especially in apartment blocks that have various flats on top of each other.
Find out more about the latest studies into fire safety below.
Pilot Study
The government has estimated that between 6,000 and 8,000 (out of a possible 79,000) mid-rise residential buildings in England require work to repair fire safety faults. The pilot study that took place looked into the occurrence and expense of external wall systems and other fire protection systems in these structures.
The cost of reducing fire hazards for impacted homes is estimated to be between £3.1 billion and £5.3 billion; according to the study.
This comes after the government announced in January that leaseholders in buildings between 11 and 18 metres would be responsible for cladding repair. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) have also announced that they are seeking an additional £4 billion from developers.
Callow Mount
But, it shouldn’t just be focused on the number of external wall systems in place for fire prevention. A fire sprinkler system is also a great way to suppress flames and give more time to those evacuating.
Automatic fire sprinklers can be retrofitted in existing developments, like mid-rise residential buildings, in a cost-effective way. Some may question if this is possible, especially in apartment blocks with various flats, yet the project back in 2011 proves this to be false. Callow Mount, a pilot development in Sheffield, had a fire sprinkler system installed throughout 46 one-bedroomed flats and 1 two-bedroomed flats, including the communal areas.
This show that a fire sprinkler system can efficiently be installed in existing mid-rise buildings promptly and within budget. There is still one in ten buildings that do not have proper fire prevention methods in place. So, why not fire sprinklers? Residential systems typically have sprinkler heads in each flat and in communal areas such as the reception or entrance/exit.
How Can a Fire Sprinkler System Help?
At RAD Fire Sprinklers, we want to promote the benefits of installing a fire sprinkler system. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), no more than two people have died in a fire when the building has a working sprinkler system. Having a fire sprinkler in place can save lives and assist evacuees in safely exiting the building.
Also, properly operating a fire sprinkler system can not only save lives but also decrease property damage. Keep in mind, that lack of maintenance accounts for around 44% of system failures. Just because your building has a sprinkler system doesn’t mean you can neglect maintenance requirements. They also have various environmental benefits to consider.
Despite all of these life-saving advantages, a recent survey of over 100 firms found that just 35% have any type of fire protection. Find out more about how a fire sprinkler system can help buildings here.
RAD Fire Sprinkler Systems
Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we promote and perform fire sprinkler installation in buildings across the UK. We understand the importance of having a fire sprinkler system in both commercial and residential buildings; as they have continuously prevented damage and saved lives.
To find out more, or to receive a quote, why not fill in our online form? A member of our team will shortly be in touch to see how we can help you. Or, give us a call on 01892 680 090 and speak to us today.
