Wraptite® external air barrier helps to create state-of-the-art learning environments for over 4500 Scottish pupils

Building Products Index Ltd Membranes, Uncategorized Leave a Comment

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The specification and installation of A.Proctor Group’s Wraptite® external air barrier is helping three separate secondary school projects in Scotland to achieve the Passivhaus standard. As a result of the high-quality new school buildings, more than 4500 pupils will benefit from learning in thermally comfortable classrooms with excellent indoor air quality.

All three schools are being delivered by main contractor Robertson ConstructionTayside.With its purpose of assuring a sustainable future, Robertson has developed a specialism in Passivhaus construction, which supports its customers, local authorities and Government to address low carbon goals.

What are the three Passivhaus school projects where Wraptite has been specified?

The three schools are Perth High School, East End Community Campus in Dundee, and Monifieth Learning Campus. Construction commenced on all three within the space of a few months in the first half of 2023.

Perth High School was the first project to get underway.The current Oakbank Road building is more than 50 years old and rated ‘poor’ for suitability. It has been used beyond its design life.The new-build school will replace the existing facility when it is handed over in summer 2025.

Originally, a more traditional design and specification was intended for the construction, which will be used by 1600 pupils and 140 staff. The Passivhaus approach was adopted during the design process, and required minimal alteration to the building’s agreed form and location.

Two Dundee high schools also nearing the end of their life – Craigie High School and Braeview Academy – will be replaced by the East End Community Campus. Designed to accommodate around 1800 pupils, the site includes an integrated education centre for those with complex assisted support needs.

Expected to be handed over in summer 2025 as well, the campus’s sports facilities will be available to local groups and clubs. Some council services will be delivered from the new campus too.

The new education and community campus in Monifieth, near Dundee, features a new school for 1200 pupils and amenities including a swimming pool and Sport Scotland-standard athletics facilities. Angus Council’s intention is for the campus to be used fully, all year round.

Like Perth High School, construction is being phased so the new school is constructed while the old one remains in use.The existing facility will then be demolished once the new campus is up and running.

Installing Wraptite external air barrier to a variety of structural solutions

The external walls of each new school are constructed in a slightly different way, showing that the Passivhaus standard can be achieved using different construction methods. Building on and using its sustainable construction expertise, Robertson ensured the standard was capable of being met on these three projects.

“We wanted to take what we learnt delivering Scotland’s first certified Passivhaus school, Riverside Primary, and apply it to future projects,” said Kevin Dickson, Regional Managing Director, Robertson ConstructionTayside.“This opportunity came with the appointment to deliver three Passivhaus schools, constructed to realise each local authority’s vision while generating meaningful benefits throughout the process.”

A similar procurement process to Riverside Primary meant that using Wraptite satisfied the requirement for using local suppliers, on top of the experience gained in using it to meet the airtightness requirements.

Perth High School is a concrete frame with mineral wool insulation and a facing brick facade.The school buildings to the other two campuses feature a mix of concrete and steel frame, with high performance insulation. Facing brickwork is the finish at Monifieth, while East End Community Campus will have finishes of facing brickwork, precast concrete and cladding.

Wraptite is well-suited to Passivhaus projects, and the different construction methods demonstrate its versatility in helping to meet the standard’s high levels of airtightness. By moving the airtight line to the exterior face of the wall structure, it avoids a lot of complex detailing around services and other penetrations that typically occur at the internal face.

As a fully-adhered vapour permeable membrane, Wraptite saves on labour and material costs, without compromising airtightness levels and without increasing condensation risk within the structure. Not all detailing issues can be avoided, of course, and where particular areas of detailing do need to be addressed there is the added benefit of Wraptite tape.

On-site quality checks are a hallmark of the Passivhaus standard and accreditation.The simple solution offered by Wraptite allows those checks to be carried out with the minimum of fuss. Find out more: https://proctorgroup.com/products/wraptite

External Enclosures & Outdoor Cabinets

Building Products Index Ltd Steel Cabinets Leave a Comment

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Glasdon UK Limited specialise in the design and manufacture of bespoke and standard size GRP enclosures, steel cabinets and steel enclosures for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. From compact outdoor electrical enclosure cabinets to large walk in enclosures, we can deliver each unit fully pre-assembled for efficient install.

The Element™ GRP Housing Range is a cost-effective enclosure for securely housing a wide variety of industrial equipment. Element GRP Housing combines robust, weather and vandal resistant GRP panels and roof with a range of options to offer optimum flexibility for your application. Available in 10 standard sizes.

Element™ GRP Housing incorporates modular panels which allows for modification and relocation in the future.

Further customisation of the Element building is available with a choice of optional fittings. A vent or gland plate extends Element’s usage opportunities and a wide range of locking systems provide extra security and peace of mind for housing sensitive equipment.

Element’s GRP panels feature a semi-gloss, light grey outer laminate, which is easy to maintain throughout its long service life.

Delivered fully assembled and ready for anchoring into position with self-tapping masonry bolts, Element offers optimum flexibility for your application.

For more details, visit the website www.glasdon.com or email enquiries@glasdon-uk.co.uk

One Every Minute: The Retrofit Rate Needed to Hit Net Zero by 2050

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, PVC-U, PVC-U, Windows Leave a Comment

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A new industry report commissioned by Eurocell has revealed a stark reality: England must retrofit one home every minute between now and 2050 to meet its national net zero commitments.

The independent research, conducted in partnership with Cicero/amo, explores how prepared the construction industry is to deliver energy-related upgrades across England’s 23 million existing homes. The conclusion? We’re falling short – and time is running out.

Key findings include:

  • Over 19 million homes require energy-efficiency upgrades by 2050
  • Just 4.2% of homes currently meet EPC Band C or above
  • More than 50% of homes were built before 1980 – long before energy performance was a design priority
  • Retrofitting must scale up by over 12 times the current rate to hit 2050 targets

These figures highlight the urgent need for high-performing, sustainable, and scalable retrofit solutions- particularly across social housing and ageing private stock.

Be Retrofit Ready with Eurocell

Eurocell’s Logik 70mm casement window system is engineered to meet the demands of energy-efficient retrofitting.

Logik System Highlights:

  • Exceeds Part L requirements – Achieves U-values as low as 1.2 W/m²K
  • Improves EPC ratings – Can help properties upgrade from Band D to Band C
  • Multi-chambered profile enhances insulation and reduces heating costs
  • Integrated trickle vents improve air quality and support compliance with Approved Document F
  • Sustainable by design – 100% of removed PVC-U frames are recycled
  • UK-manufactured, reducing transport-related emissions

Advanced Sustainability Through Design

Logik profiles feature over 40% post-consumer recycled PVC-U as standard. Using Dual Material Extrusion Technology (DMET), Logik combines recycled core material with a virgin outer layer – delivering performance and sustainability without compromising aesthetics. The recycled material is completely invisible in the finished product, making it ideal for refurbishment projects where appearance and compliance matter.

Carbon Footprint Reduction Backed by Research

To further substantiate the sustainability credentials of PVC-U product solutions, Eurocell worked with the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Manchester Metropolitan University to review an array of data sets and modelling emanating from peer-reviewed publications. This would establish a life cycle assessment of the use of recycled PVC-U in the company’s manufacturing operations.

Eurocell requested the scientists interrogate the set estimates for overall CO2 savings that can be achieved from the use of waste PVC-U and determine an accurate statistic to prove the environmental benefit of using waste PVC-U within recycling operations.

  • Replacing one tonne of virgin PVC with recycled PVC can reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 1.7 tonnes
  • Using one tonne of post-consumer PVC-U saves up to 2.056 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent – roughly two months’ worth of emissions from the average UK resident

This reinforces the value of circular manufacturing in reducing the carbon footprint of retrofit projects at scale.

Read the full research report:
eurocell.co.uk/blog/one-every-minute-the-rate-homes-in-england-need-energy-related-upgrades-to-meet-2050-net-zero-target

Partner with Eurocell to retrofit better. Build smarter. And help close the gap – one home at a time.

For more information on how Eurocell can assist you in delivering your next project, please contact the team commercialsales.profiles@eurocell.co.uk.

 

NAYLOR EXPANDS POWER SECTOR OFFERING

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Following the expansion of its ducting range with the launch of PVC Class 1 and Class 2 Duct products, Naylor has launched ‘Naylor Power’ – a dedicated division formed to serve the evolving needs of the UK power, data, fibre and telecoms markets with a comprehensive product portfolio and specialist support.

The launch of Naylor Power underlines the company’s commitment to supporting the UK’s growing energy and infrastructure sectors.  It will be led by Product Sales Manager, John Grindrod and Business Development Manager for Power Infrastructure, Beth Whitford, who have extensive industry knowledge and can provide guidance and support to project stakeholders.

Naylor’s recent investment in enhanced production capability enables Naylor Power to provide an expanding range of ducting solutions including PVC Class 1 & Class 2 ducting; Twin Wall Ducting (Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3), and Smooth PE Class 3 Ducting for data, fibre optic and telecoms applications.

Its most recently launched PVC Class 1 and Class 2 duct range which are manufactured in accordance with the Energy Network Association Technical Specification 12-24 – ENATS 12-24 and, for Class 1 duct, BS EN 61386-24.

Offering the advantages of a lightweight flexible product combined with high strength and durability, both systems are designed for use in high voltage power networks including hydro, wind farms and solar farms.  They are also suitable for use in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Available in red as standard and black upon request, Naylor uPVC Class 1 duct comes in sizes 110mm and 160mm (OD) and can be supplied in three and six metre lengths as standard.

Naylor uPVC Class 2 duct is available in sizes 38mm, 96.5mm, 110mm and 160mm (OD) and can be supplied in three and six metre lengths.  It is available in both red and black as standard with additional colours available on request.

Both uPVC Class 1 and Class 2 ducting ranges also include a wide choice of bends, couplings, end caps and access chambers.

Naylor’s dedicated in-house technical team is also able to provide a full suite of support services including technical drawings, project take-offs, specification assistance and value engineering.

For more information, contact John Grindrod by emailing john.grindrod@naylor.co.uk or calling  07831 192606.

Have you seen the new colour chart for Clement’s steel windows and doors?

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, Steel, Steel doors, Windows Leave a Comment

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The team at Clement always talks about how many different colours are available for their bespoke steel windows and doors, but did you know you can now view these in the company’s new RAL Colour Chart?

Black steel doors and windows are still a popular look, but the colour options for standard polyester powder paint in a semi gloss or matt finish at Clement are numerous.  There is also a huge range of non-standard colours, available at an extra cost.

Clement offers a dual colour finish too, where you can choose to paint the window frames different colours internally and externally.  There are complementary silicone colours and specialist metallic effect finishes are also available – speak to a sales advisor for more information.

The company uses the fabulous powder paint colours by Akzo Nobel, who are renowned global leaders in advanced performance surface coatings.  Akzo Nobel paints are highly durable and Clement’s factory specialists bake the paint on at a high temperature to give a superb finish.

Generally offered with a warranty of ten years, polyester powder coated steel windows and doors by Clement provide an average paint coating in excess of 100 microns, when the industry standard is 60 microns.  Clement’s hot dip galvanised, polyester powder coated steel frames require minimal maintenance and last for many years.

Several customers have opted for unusual colour schemes – the team at Clement has manufactured blue windows, red door screens and yellow doors in recent years!

Looking for a new colour scheme?  Contact Clement Windows Group today for more information:

Tel:     01428 643393

Email:  info@clementwg.co.uk

Web:   www.clementwindows.co.uk

Value Engineering – Waterproofing

Building Products Index Ltd Waterproof Membranes, waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Value engineering is a method to deliver essential project functions at the lowest cost. It substitutes materials and methods with cheaper alternatives without losing functionality. Focused on functions rather than physical attributes, value engineering is also known as value analysis.

Value engineering reviews products in the design phase to cut costs and boost functionality, enhancing product value. It aims to produce items cost-effectively without compromising their purpose. The concept of Value Engineering began at General Electric Co. during World War II.  During the war, there were shortages of skilled labour, raw materials, and component parts. Lawrence Miles and Harry Erlicher at G.E. sought suitable substitutes.

Aligning Value Engineering with Structural Waterproofing

Messrs Miles Erlicher defined product value as the ratio of function to cost. Function is the work an item is designed to perform, and cost covers its life cycle expenses. Increasing product value involves enhancing function or reducing cost. Value engineering includes analysing costs related to production, design, maintenance, and replacement.

Product value        =           Function

                                            _________

                                                  Cost

Waterproofing requires a tailored design approach, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution.  So, to achieve value engineering in structural waterproofing, consideration should be given to product, product performance characteristics, installation, future maintenance and worst-case scenario, refitting flawed or failed systems.

Waterproofing is vital for maintaining the integrity and value of a structure. Poor workmanship, wrong materials, lack of preparation, or missed details during installation can cause failed waterproofing systems, leading to water damage and expensive repairs.  Addressing waterproofing issues early ensures a structure stays in great condition. Although waterproofing costs only 2-5% of a building’s total expense, to rectify failed or flawed waterproofing, can account to nearly 80% of all construction-related problems.

Effective structural waterproofing relies on precise product selection and proper installation methods from the start.

Waterproofing Design

Waterproofing design is essential in construction, employing various methods and materials to prevent water ingress. Effective waterproofing design enhances building longevity and safeguards structures against water damage.

Three key stages to successful waterproofing: design, specification, and installation.

The waterproofing designer will assess “value” and incorporate this into their design.  Not all waterproofing products/materials are equal.  Different products offer varied qualities and features, so it’s important to choose the right one for the project.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist must know various waterproofing systems and BS 8102:2022. They should understand water sources, their interaction with structures, and soil flow. Structural principles and geotechnical knowledge are essential for working with engineers and interpreting soil reports.

Delta Technical Team

Delta’s Technical Team can help you find value engineering solutions for your waterproofing project.  For all your project requirements, Delta’s Technical Team is a dependable resource. Offering expert advice, comprehensive support, and timely practical assistance, we cater to your specific needs. Contact us today to optimise your project’s performance and cost efficiency.    Tel: 01992 523 523 or drop us an email at info@deltamembranes.com.

Considering glass doors for your heritage building? Heritage experts Ion Glass explore the benefits.

Building Products Index Ltd Architectural Glass Leave a Comment

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Many churches and heritage properties have recognized that traditional heavy wooden doors can be off-putting, creating an unwelcome barrier for visitors.  Replacing timber doors with a bespoke structural glass alternative, whilst keeping the original doors  fixed permanently open offers all the benefits of a contemporary glass door without losing any of the intrinsic heritage.

  • A glass door, with an open view of the interior is significantly more welcoming
  • Use of glass improves light flow, increasing the levels of natural light to the interior of the building
  • Glass doors can be fully automated, allowing easier, more inclusive access
  • Replacing a timber door with glass can do much to save energy, alleviating heat loss and avoiding draughts,
  • The glass door can be made fully secure and fitted with alarms as required
  • Glass has minimal impact on the structure of the building, meeting listed building requirements
  • Use of a bespoke glass manifestation to meet building regulations can also add a contemporary style note

Use of a glass transom and side panels can facilitate the use of more simple double doors within an arched space.  Ion regularly employ this technique to perfectly accommodate glass doors in arches of different dimensions.

These fully bespoke Ion Glass doors at different churches and heritage sites have created functional and stylish entrances in traditional – often listed – environments:

The original wooden front door at St Dionis  Church in Parsons Green, London, looked dark and uninviting, discouraging visitors and minimising light to the interior

Replacing the wooden door with glass and opening up the bricks on either side to include two full height side windows transformed the entrance, creating a welcoming entrance with a light and airy space within.

A complete re-ordering of Holy Trinity Church at Wantage involved enclosing the open porch with glass and installing bespoke fully automatic double doors.  The original wooden doors were retained but kept permanently open, allowing light to flood into the interior.

Removal of the original wooden doors and replacing them with bespoke glass created a welcoming entrance for St Mary’s, East Molesey. Use of computer aided measuring techniques, careful design and accurate manufacturing ensured the glass fits perfectly around the stonework.   The custom designed manifestation was created to reflect the new styling and re-ordering of the church.

For more information on Ion’s solutions in fully frameless or minimally framed bespoke glass doors, porches, glass linkways, glass shower screens, internal or external balustrades (curved or straight),  glass screens or other architectural glass installations call us on 0345 658 9988,  send us an email via info@ionglass.co.uk or make an immediate appointment to speak to one of our experts.

www.ionglass.co.uk

Heritage-Sensitive Retrofit: Dales Fabrications Ltd Delivers for Netherfield Estate

Building Products Index Ltd Aluminium building products, gutters, Pipes, Uncategorized Leave a Comment

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Leading designer & manufacturer of aluminium building products, Dales Fabrications is contributing to the £12 million retrofit of Milton Keynes’ Netherfield Estate, demonstrating the capability of aluminium systems to support both sustainability objectives and heritage preservation requirements.

For the retrofit, Dales are supplying their Fascia Soffit in RAL 9006 Matt, Delta 100 Gutter in RAL 9010 Satin, and 101.6mm Contemporary Rainwater Pipe in RAL 9010 Satin, working alongside ECD Architects, Mears Group, and Bailey MK Ltd.

Project Overview

The SHDF Wave 1-funded project is decarbonising 302 council-owned homes while respecting the estate’s architectural significance. With Phase 1 now complete, the retrofit programme is progressing through its final stages, with completion anticipated later this year.

Originally designed by ‘The Grunt Group’ under Milton Keynes Development Corporation, the 1970s estate holds recognition as a non-designated heritage asset. The retrofit addresses critical performance issues including inadequate insulation, damp, mould, and overheating, while preserving the estate’s architectural character through careful material selection.

Why Aluminium?

Aluminium’s durability, corrosion resistance, and lightweight properties make it ideal for this complex retrofit. The material’s strength-to-weight ratio suits architectural applications, while low maintenance characteristics reduce long-term costs for residents.

The specification of aluminium products also aligns with the project’s sustainability objectives due to the material’s high recyclability, which enables continuous reuse without quality degradation and supports circular economy principles. As a founding member of the CAB Closed Loop Recycling Scheme, Dales Fabrications actively works to maximise material efficiency and minimise environmental impact. This commitment is demonstrated through the supplied rainwater pipes, which comprise 78% recycled content and maintain full recyclability at end-of-life, supporting the project’s broader environmental goals.

 Impact so Far

Energy modelling by ECD Architects guided targeted upgrades, including high-performance windows, external insulation, and warm roofs. Where Phase 1 upgrades are complete, tenants report improved thermal comfort, reduced heating requirements, and fuel bills cut by more than half compared to pre-retrofit conditions.

As well as receiving positive feedback from tenants, the project has received notable industry recognition, including being shortlisted for the ‘Unlock Net Zero Live Awards 2023’ in the Collaboration of the year category. Additionally, the project made it to the finals of both the ‘Constructing Excellence Awards 2024’ in the ‘regeneration & retrofit’ category and the ‘Unlock Net Zero Live Awards 2024’ in the ‘green homes upgrade of the Year’ category.

The importance of retrofit:

With the UK targeting 68% carbon reduction by 2030, projects like Netherfield Estate showcase how existing housing stock can be transformed through thoughtful specification, material selection, and collaboration, proving heritage preservation and decarbonisation can go hand-in-hand.

How The Newton Recycling Service Sets New Standards for Sustainability in Construction

Building Products Index Ltd waterproofing Leave a Comment

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Sustainability is becoming an increasingly pressing matter within the construction industry. With rising concerns over carbon emissions, energy consumption and the depletion of natural resources, construction companies must implement sustainable practices in order to reduce our environmental impact.

Through pioneering recycling initiatives, eco-friendly product developments, and a commitment to environmental protection, we are proud to be setting new standards for sustainability in structural waterproofing.

The Newton Recycling Service: A Game Changer for the Industry

In 2017, we pioneered the first closed-loop waste management and recycling service in the UK waterproofing industry. Now having recycled over 26 tonnes of material, the initiative addresses the problem of the waste that is generated from waterproofing membranes and product packaging, providing a practical, eco-friendly solution for contractors and construction companies.

How Does Newton’s Recycling Service Work?

The process of installing waterproofing products inevitably generates off-cuts, unusable packaging and waste materials. However, rather than allowing these to contribute to landfill waste, our recycling service ensures that they are collected, reprocessed and recycled. The service operates by:

Collection of Waste Materials

Thanks to our own fleet of delivery vehicles, Newton’s specialist drivers collect membrane off-cuts and empty packaging from our nationwide network of Newton Specialist Basement Contractors (NSBCs). These collections coincide with deliveries of new product, thereby reducing the need for separate journeys and minimising carbon emissions.

Sorting and Recycling

The collected materials are returned to our headquarters, where they are processed and prepared for recycling.

Reintegration into the Industry

The prepared materials are sent to a third-party plastics reprocessor, where they are manufactured into new construction products and reintroduced into the supply chain. In doing so, we are contributing to the use of recycled and renewable materials in future building projects.

The Environmental and Commercial Benefits for Contractors

Participating in Newton’s sustainable construction initiative offers numerous benefits to contractors and construction companies:

  • Reduction of waste disposal costs – Contractors can lower expenses related to waste disposal, improving their bottom line.
  • Minimised carbon footprint – By recycling waterproofing membranes, contractors help lower the gross annual carbon emissions associated with their construction projects.
  • Enhanced corporate social responsibility – Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability in construction aligns contractors with global and UK environmental regulations, which is increasingly important to stakeholders.
  • Compliance with Green Building Standards – The initiative contributes to green certifications such as BREEAM, helping to create sustainable buildings that meet the Future Homes Standard.

Newton’s Commitment to Sustainable Product Development

Beyond recycling, we are dedicated to producing sustainable building materials that reduce energy consumption and promote resource efficiency. This is evident in our latest Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for the HydroBond 402 and HydroBond 403 external waterproofing membranes.

What Makes These Products More Sustainable?

Newton’s EPD-certified products further contribute to the reduction of the environmental impact of waterproofing systems by:

  • Minimising fossil fuel usage during production
  • Extending material lifespans
  • Reducing amount of waste, and
  • Promoting energy efficiency

Overall, these EPD certified products ensure less energy consumption while supporting sustainable building materials and responsible use of resources.

The Impact of Newton’s Recycling Service on the Built Environment

Since its launch, our waste management programme has made a positive impact on green construction. Some of the key outcomes include:

  • Reduction in landfill waste, ensuring less energy is used in waste disposal.
  • Significant carbon footprint reductions, as the recycling initiative limits unnecessary material production.
  • Greater use of sustainable materials, incorporating renewable materials into new building projects.
  • Improved quality, as more environmentally responsible materials contribute to healthier and more sustainable buildings.

The Essential Role of Sustainability in Construction

As the UK government continues to push for sustainable development, construction companies play an essential role in fostering sustainable construction methods. By integrating sustainable practices such as recycling and EPD-certified construction materials, we are helping to shape a construction sector that is willing to change its approach to environmental sustainability and long-term performance.

AFTER GRENFELL – EMPOWERING DIGITAL FIRE SAFETY

Building Products Index Ltd Fire Protection Leave a Comment

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Why is BS 8644-1 Crucial for Business Owners and Facility Managers?

THE ROLE OF GRENFELL IN CHANGING FIRE SAFETY STANDARDS

The Grenfell Tower fire disaster in 2017, which claimed 72 lives, marked a turning point in UK fire safety standards1. This prolific event highlighted critical gaps in fire safety management, leading to comprehensive reforms aimed at improving accountability and transparency. One significant outcome was the introduction of BS 8644-1 in 2022, a standard that emphasises the digital management of fire safety information throughout a building’s lifecycle. By promoting accurate, accessible, and consistent data, BS 8644-1 supports more robust safety practices and enhances compliance across the built environment.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR FIRE SAFETY?

Under the Fire Safety Act 2021, building owners, managers, and designated Responsible Persons (RPs) are required to:

  • Ensure a fire risk assessment is completed by a competent person
  • Ensure fire safety systems are maintained by a competent person
  • Inform occupants about evacuation procedures

HOW DOES BS 8644-1 HELP?

BS 8644-13 outlines best practices for the digital management of fire safety information across all stages of a building’s lifecycle.

Following the Grenfell Tower fire, Dame Judith Hackitt’s independent review identified widespread issues with the creation, maintenance, and handover of critical safety records, calling for a unified approach known as the “golden thread”. This concept ensures that essential fire safety data remains accurate, accessible, and relevant from design through to a building’s end of life, fostering greater accountability and transparency.

The standard addresses longstanding concerns, such as inadequate record-keeping and unclear accountability, by mandating consistent digital documentation to support safer building operations. UK business owners and facility managers must recognise that this standard is not just about regulatory compliance – it’s about safeguarding lives and protecting assets.

WHAT IS THE COST OF FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM FAILURES?

False alarm incidents continue to be a major challenge, with UK Government statistics reporting 254,000 cases in the year ending September 2024, the highest number since 2011. These disruptions burden emergency services, impact businesses and may cause people to become less responsive to real fire emergencies.

Common causes include:

  • Poor detector placement or incorrect device selection
  • Inadequate maintenance or testing
  • Deliberate tampering or power failures

Faulty equipment accounted for 118,115 false alarms, marking a 20% increase over five years. These figures underscore the importance of proper system maintenance, effective design, and compliance with fire safety standards to mitigate risks and ensure reliable operation.

HOW DOES THE DIGITAL SHIFT ENHANCE FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE?

Technology, such as Honeywell’s cloud-based maintenance app (CLSS) and automated fire detectors (Self-Test), provide a transformative, digital approach to managing fire safety:

  • Remote Monitoring & Real-Time Alerts: These solutions offer instant insights into fire system status and performance, reducing downtime and false alarms.
  • Automated Functional Testing: Self-Test detectors allow for regular, accurate checks that consistently meet BS 5839-1 standards.
  • Digital Documentation: Cloud-based record-keeping establishes a continuous “golden thread” that documents every stage of the building lifecycle.

HOW DO CONNECTED SOLUTIONS SUPPORT THE BS 8644-1 BUILDING LIFECYCLE?

BS 8644-1 recommends digital management at every stage of a building’s life. Honeywell’s connected solutions integrate seamlessly into each phase.

Briefing and Design

Fire risk assessment and strategy should be at the core of every fire system design. Yet, long-term compliance and daily challenges are often overlooked. Daily issues such as accessibility for testing, fire monitoring during testing, and regular reporting and compliance updates are common. The pressure to cut initial installation costs may lead to choosing lower-specification non-connected devices, increasing long-term maintenance costs.

Construction

Construction projects frequently limit the time allocated for proper fire system commissioning. Honeywell’s Self-Test detectors automate testing even in challenging environments, ensuring that systems are fully compliant before handover. Digital logs capture every test and adjustment, providing an auditable trail that supports both compliance and operational efficiency.

Asset Handover

Asset handover involves demonstrating the functionality of the system to the relevant stakeholders, including building owners, regulatory authorities or their representatives. Accurate documentation, including test results, commentary and pictures of fire devices and their locations, help capture the condition of the system that is being handed over – creating a digital timestamp and a baseline for future maintenance. The asset handover should ensure clear accountability across all phases of a building’s lifecycle.

Asset in Use

For operational buildings, continuous system monitoring is critical. Honeywell’s cloud‑based solutions provide real‑time oversight and automated functional testing to identify any changes or degradation in system performance. This continuous monitoring reduces the risk of system failures and minimises disruption to building occupants.

Asset End of Life

Fire safety systems eventually require replacement or upgrading. Connected solutions enable predictive maintenance by providing alerts when components approach the end of their effective life. This proactive strategy ensures timely upgrades, prevents sudden failures, and helps maintain continuous compliance – all while supporting long-term budget planning.

HOW CAN YOU FUTUREPROOF YOUR FIRE SAFETY STRATEGY?

Protecting buildings and their occupants is non-negotiable. Digital fire safety isn’t optional; it’s a strategic priority. Honeywell continually invests in new technologies designed to meet the real-world challenges faced by UK businesses. By adopting new innovations, such as Honeywell CLSS and Self-Test, UK business owners and facility managers can:

  • Reduce Operational Risks: Implement continuous monitoring and maintenance of fire safety systems.
  • Meet & Exceed Compliance: Maintain a complete, digital audit trail that meets and exceeds the latest regulatory standards.
  • Secure Long-Term Savings: Avoid the financial and reputational costs associated with outdated, manual systems.
  • Enhance Safety: Real-time alerts and digital record-keeping protect both occupants and assets.

TAKE THE NEXT STEPS IN SAFEGUARDING YOUR BUILDING

BS 8644-1 sets a new standard for fire safety management through digital innovation. By integrating connected technologies, organisations can achieve greater safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. Digital transformation effectively addresses the challenges identified from previous shortcomings, paving the way for a more resilient, accountable fire safety landscape.

Connect with Honeywell for a free consultation about the impact of BS 8644-1 on your buildings, and how you can not only meet these standards, but exceed them.