Category Archives: Fire News

Why Fire Stopping Needs Revisiting After Electrical or Plumbing Work

Damaged wall exposing burst water pipes after flood

When it comes to fire safety, the devil is often in the details, and few details are overlooked as frequently as the fire stopping around pipes, cables, and conduits. While buildings are designed with passive fire protection measures like compartmentation and fire-resistant walls, these defences can be quietly compromised during routine works such as installing […]

What Does ‘BS EN 1364’ Mean on Your Fire Door Frame?

A dramatic display of flames erupting from a burning building, showcasing the collapse of structure and the uncontrollable nature of fire within a detailed environment.

When inspecting a fire door or its frame, you may come across a label or certificate referencing BS EN 1364. But what does this standard actually mean, and how does it relate to the performance and legal compliance of your fire doors? In this post, we’ll break down what BS EN 1364 covers, how it […]

What Is a Fire Control Panel Zone Plan, And Why Must It Be Accurate?

Fire in the office building

When a fire alarm is triggered, seconds matter. Firefighters and building occupants need to know exactly where the alarm has been activated and which area may be affected. That’s where a fire alarm zone plan comes in, a simple but critical tool that supports fast, effective emergency response. Yet in far too many UK buildings, […]

Fire-Stopping in Suspended Ceilings: The Hidden Weak Link

Collapsed ceiling in a house fire creates sparks and intense flames in a residential area.

Suspended ceilings are a common feature in offices, schools, hospitals, and retail buildings across the UK. They hide ductwork, lighting, and cabling, offering a clean, finished appearance. But behind those ceiling tiles lies a potentially serious fire safety issue that many property managers and contractors overlook: fire-stopping in the ceiling void. If not properly inspected […]

When Does a Building Need Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs)?

Firefighter Extinguishing Burning Wood Pile with Hose in Smoky Environment

In the event of a fire, smoke is often a greater threat to life than flames themselves. That’s why many buildings in the UK are fitted with Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs): systems designed to help control the movement of smoke and hot gases, keeping escape routes clearer for longer. But when exactly does a building […]

Do Internal Walls Actually Offer Fire Resistance? Don’t Assume They Do

A building on the verge of collapse after a fire breaks out, with flames rising from gaps in the walls and debris falling.

In many buildings across the UK, people assume that internal walls, especially stud partitions, automatically offer some degree of fire resistance. But in reality, this is a dangerous assumption. Not all walls are designed to resist fire, and unless they’ve been constructed and tested to a recognised standard, they may fail quickly during a blaze. […]

Retrofit Fire Stopping: What Can Be Done After the Walls Are Up?

Fire saftey retrofit plans spread out on a table with a fire alarm sat on top

When it comes to fire protection, prevention is always better than cure. But what happens when the building is already finished, walls plastered, ceilings boarded, tenants moved in, and someone discovers that passive fire protection is missing or inadequate? This is where retrofit fire stopping comes in. Whether you’re dealing with a listed building, a […]

Do Fire Doors Need Third-Party Certification?

Fire exit sign with light on the path way in the hotel or office

Fire doors are one of the most critical components of any building’s fire safety strategy. They provide vital protection by containing fire and smoke, preserving escape routes, and giving the fire service time to respond. But simply installing a door with a “fire door” sticker isn’t enough. So, do fire doors need third-party certification? While […]

How to Spot Non-Compliant Fire Safety Products Online

Chemical is sprayed by fire extinguisher CO2 type to cover on valve of LPG gas tank to put out fire by trainee for fire fighting training , trainer is background.

In a world of next-day delivery and competitive pricing, it’s tempting to buy fire safety products online. But not all products marketed as “compliant” actually meet UK standards. In fact, the growth of online marketplaces has also made it easier for counterfeit and non-certified items to enter workplaces, rental properties, and even schools. If you’re […]

What Is Fire Load, and Why Should You Care?

Office engulfed in flames

When assessing fire risk in a building, most people think about alarms, extinguishers, or escape routes. But one of the most critical, and often overlooked, factors is fire load. If you’re responsible for fire safety in a building, whether as a business owner, landlord, or facilities manager, understanding fire load can make all the difference […]