The Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG), has been launched to drive culture change through the design and construction process to improve fire safety in buildings.
The Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG) brings together Tier 1 contractors, specialist installers, and relevant trade associations to promote passive fire protection guidance and so improve the delivery of well-designed, specified and installed passive fire protection. Tier 1 contractors comprise the largest stakeholder group and have the influence to drive forward the necessary culture change.
Fire protection design challenges
Commenting Will Pitt (Laing O’Rourke) of Passive Fire Knowledge Group (PFKG), said: "Tier 1 contractors are fundamental to managing the transition from design into the finished building and as such need to understand the procedures, systems, and products involved."
Will Pitt adds, "It is important that passive fire protection is adequately considered at the planning and early design stages to ensure buildings are designed and constructed in accordance with relevant regulations. The PFKG aims to resolve the complex passive fire protection design challenges to ensure the construction industry delivers safe buildings."
Joe Cilia (FIS) joint Chair added: "Trade Associations such as Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) and the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) are able to bring specialist knowledge from within their technical teams and their wider membership through a collaborative approach to support this group meet its aims."
Specification of passive fire protection
The PFKG will initially focus on education, process, and testing issues related to the design and specification of passive fire protection for compartmentation, with an initial focus on service penetration sealing and compatibility with fire-resisting partitions (firewalls).
Other issues the forum will consider include: the appropriate application of fire test data to real-life installations, inspection and recording of installed works during construction, and the education requirements of those designing, procuring, and installing passive fire protection.