Category Archives: Fire News

Where Should Smoke Alarms Be Installed?

Shallow focus of a hard wired smoke detector seen in the downstairs hall, fixed to the ceiling.,An open door leading to a living room can be seen.

Smoke alarms are one of the most important pieces of fire safety equipment in any home or building. They provide early warning of a fire, giving people precious time to escape before smoke and flames spread. However, simply having smoke alarms isn’t enough. Where they are installed is just as important as having them in […]

Why Small Gaps in Walls Can Be a Major Fire Risk

Italian firefighters at work during a fire in an attic of a building in an Italian city.,Apartment on fire and flames.

When people think about fire safety in buildings, they often focus on obvious things like smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, or fire doors. However, one of the most overlooked dangers can be something much smaller, gaps in walls, floors, and ceilings. Even a small opening around pipes, cables, or ductwork can significantly increase the risk of […]

Why Steel Needs Fire Protection in Buildings

A welder is welding steel on a steel roof truss.,Working at height equipment.,Fall arrestor device for worker with hooks for safety body harness.,Worker in construction site.

Steel is one of the most widely used materials in modern construction. It’s strong, versatile, and capable of supporting large loads while allowing architects and engineers to design impressive structures. From office buildings and warehouses to shopping centres and apartment blocks, steel forms the backbone of many buildings. However, despite its strength, steel has a […]

What Is Intumescent Coating for Timber, and Does It Really Work?

Silhouette of Firefighters with water hose battling flame fire bonfire.

Timber is widely loved for its natural beauty, sustainability, and versatility in construction. But there’s no denying it, wood burns. So how can we use timber safely in homes, commercial buildings, and public spaces without compromising on fire safety? That’s where intumescent coatings come in. These specialised paints and varnishes are designed to react under […]

Fire Retardant vs Fire Resistant Wood: What’s the Difference?

Intense flames engulf a wooden structure during a destructive fire outbreak in the night

When it comes to using timber in construction or interiors, fire safety is a key consideration. Wood is a combustible material, but with the right treatment or selection, it can be made far safer in the event of a fire. That’s where the terms fire retardant and fire resistant come into play. They’re often used […]

Fire-Rated Foam vs. Intumescent Sealant: Which Should You Use?

Applying expanding foam sealant around a pipe penetrating a wall for insulation and sealing purposes.

When sealing gaps, service penetrations, or voids in walls and floors, choosing the right firestop product is critical. Two of the most common options are fire-rated expanding foam and intumescent sealant, both designed to prevent fire and smoke from spreading between compartments. But while they serve a similar purpose, these products are not interchangeable. So, when […]

Smoke vs. Fire Seals: What’s the Difference — and Do You Need Both?

home fire with smoke coming from a burning chamber under the door .

When it comes to fire door safety, many people assume the door itself does all the work. But in truth, it’s the details around the edges, including the seals, that determine whether a fire door performs as intended. Two types of seals are often used in fire doors: smoke seals and fire seals. While they may […]

What Is Intumescent Hinge and Lock Protection — And Why Does It Matter?

Open door with corridor in background

When it comes to fire doors, most people focus on the door itself: the thickness, the fire rating, the seals. But what about the hinges, locks, latches, and other hardware? These critical components are often overlooked. Yet, during a fire, they can become the weakest points in a fire door assembly, unless they’re properly protected. […]

Fire Grilles vs Fire Dampers – What’s the Difference?

High fire accidents at office building

When it comes to passive fire protection in buildings, both fire grilles and fire dampers play essential roles in preventing the spread of flames and smoke. While they might seem similar at first glance—both often found in walls, ceilings, or ductwork—their functions, designs, and installation requirements are quite different. Whether you’re responsible for building safety […]

What Are Intumescent Fire Grilles and How Do They Work?

Fire grille on plain white wall

Modern buildings need airflow, but they also need to stop fire and smoke from spreading. This creates a challenge: how do you allow air to move between rooms without compromising fire safety? That’s where intumescent fire grilles come in. Often hidden in walls or doors, these devices play a crucial role in passive fire protection, […]