Keywords
Citation
(2001), "Passive fire protection systems", Facilities, Vol. 19 No. 3/4. https://doi.org/10.1108/f.2001.06919cab.003
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
Passive fire protection systems
Passive fire protection systems
Keyword: Fire safety
FIRAS, the accreditation scheme for installers of passive fire protection systems, is developing a real impetus, reports the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), Recently, 14 additional ASFP contractor members have been accredited, bringing the total number now registered in all schemes to almost 50. In addition, another seven members are currently awaiting notification of accreditation.
The aim of FIRAS, originally conceived approximately four years ago, is to improve the level of installation of passive fire protection products within the construction industry. With initiatives like Best Practice and the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), there is growing interest in how quality workmanship can be demonstrated for the good of the construction industry overall.
The objective of FIRAS is to provide confidence and reassurance that the passive fire protection installation has been carried out by knowledgeable, competent operators/supervisors and that the system will perform as anticipated. The commitment shown by a large proportion of the passive fire protection industry demonstrates that there is a desire to show that the installation of these products and systems is a specialist skill and should only be undertaken by those who can demonstrate their competency.
The initiative and the name of FlRAS came from the glazing industry. Members of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) were concerned that as more sophisticated fire resisting glass types became available, they were not being matched, on the whole, by increasingly sophisticated installation. Warrington Fire Research (WFR) was therefore asked to develop a training scheme for installer companies and FIRAS was created. It proved the catalyst for a second scheme for the ASFP covering the fire protection of steelwork. Several other schemes including one covering Penetration Sealing Systems and another for Fire Door installation, have been completed or are currently in development.
FIRAS Accredited Installers understand the critical aspects of the designed fire protection systems. They work to agreed industry standards, store and apply materials within the specified environmental limits, confirm product compatibility prior to application or installation, employ and use skilled operators and supervisors to ensure that the work is completed correctly right first time. They are also subject to policing of site work by FIRAS inspectors who are trained in all aspects of the installation critical to achievement of the required fire performance. Contractors will label the completed assembly, or will issue a Certificate of Conformity to the client. They will maintain adequate records to ensure full product traceability against specific projects and have access to technical support through the FIRAS help line.
More details are available from The Secretary, ASFP, Association House, 235 Ash Road, Aldershot, Hants GU12 4DD, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1252 321322; Fax: +44 (0)1252 333901; E-mail: john.fairley@associationhouse.org.uk