Key Learning outcomes
- Understand and acknowledge the risk of smoke in a building fire.
- Understand how to advise the client on The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
- Understand how to ensure installations are completed with the correct documentation.
- Understand how to ensure that screens supplied form part of a building fire safety system.
One of the earliest forms of fire screen dates to about 1750 and was placed in front of an open fire to reduce radiant heat. Perhaps not the most resilient of fire screens when we think of today’s high performance buildings, but its early use gives us an insight as to why fire protection within our modern buildings today is so important.
Radiation of heat can range anywhere between uncomfortable to deadly when fire is present so is an important issue to consider in all buildings. One of the simplest approaches will be a non combustible wall - but this leaves little to the designers imagination, not to mention the need for natural; light.
It was only in the late 1920’s when wire was introduced into glass that the first fire resistant glasses became available. Wired glass was extensively used in commercial buildings as a safety glass in areas where light was required. Many overhead areas of glazing still use this type of glass which still meets current legislative standards.
This short CPD Article offers an insight to the standards and what is achievable today. The CPD is also available in a face to face presentation format.