GUEST ARTICLE: The push for sustainable living and fire safety

With the threat of climate change looming large and ESG considerations becoming increasingly vital, the push for sustainable living has never been stronger. Yet, as we strive to create net zero buildings, we mustn’t lose sight of another critical aspect of modern construction: fire safety. Phil Jones, Managing Director at William Martin, writes the following article…

Sustainability and fire safety both aim to protect life and property, but they approach these goals from different angles. Achieving these two seemingly disparate goals can be a challenge, but the synergy achieved by doing so can result in safer, greener spaces for us all.

So, what do businesses need to consider when it comes to fire safety and sustainability in building design and management?

The Technical Challenge

Greener properties can incorporate renewable energy sources like solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and building materials with a low environmental impact. These buildings aim to reduce carbon footprints, lower utility costs, and promote healthier living environments.

However, each of these elements introduces new considerations for fire safety.

Timber construction and cladding has seen a resurgence due to its carbon capture properties and aesthetic appeal; specifically, wooden cladding has become a popular choice for building exteriors due to its natural beauty and versatility. However, there have been concerns regarding the safety of wooden cladding in the event of fire. Like any combustible material, timber cladding can pose a fire risk if not properly treated or installed. However, advances in fire-resistant treatments for wood, including chemical retardants and hybrid materials, are making it possible to use these sustainable materials without compromising fire safety.

Lightweight Facade Materials (LFMs) enhance energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling needs, and lower a building’s environmental impact by minimising resource requirements for construction and transportation. This, along with improved indoor environments, make LFMs an eco-friendly choice.

However, LFMs can pose a fire hazard due to their low fire resistance and propensity to ignite quickly. This can lead to rapid and unpredictable fire spread, compromising the building’s structural integrity and endangering occupants and firefighters with toxic fumes.

To counter this risk, building standards and codes stipulate specific fire safety standards for LFMs, including resistance to ignition and limited flame spread, as well as specifying their safe method of attachment.

New insulation products can make a building more energy-efficient. However, some of these products can present a fire safety risk as they can easily ignite and spread fire quickly, releasing toxic gases and large amounts of heat. Again, building standards and codes stipulate specific fire safety standards and safe application.

PV systems

Solar panels are increasingly being deployed, driven by a rising demand for renewable energy sources. However, photovoltaic (PV) systems, particularly those for cladding and roofing which rely on a cavity for installation and cooling, pose fire hazards.

This gap between the wall/roof and the installation can create flue-like conditions that can accelerate the spread of flames. Therefore, with fire safety in mind, solar panels must be installed by certified professionals, using fire-resistant mounting systems, and regularly maintained. Smart technologies integrated into building management systems can have a positive impact on both sustainability and fire safety. Automated systems that control lighting, heating, and cooling to optimise energy use can also be equipped with advanced fire detection and suppression systems. These smart systems can monitor environmental conditions and respond more quickly and effectively in the event of a fire, potentially reducing damage and enhancing resident safety. Smoke detectors, heat sensors, and automated sprinkler systems can be integrated into smart home networks, allowing for quicker detection and response to fires.

Battery charging and storage: We have all seen reports of spontaneous and difficult to extinguish fires associated with battery storage systems for solar energy, as well as battery charging equipment. These installations should be correctly located with suitable management controls in place, which are routinely reviewed as part of a comprehensive fire risk assessment process.

Collaboration and Education

The integration of sustainability and fire safety may be a technical challenge, but it’s a necessary evolution in building design and management.

Creating residential properties that are both sustainable and fire-safe requires collaboration among architects, engineers, construction firms, and fire safety professionals. Early involvement of fire safety experts in the design process can help identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them without compromising sustainability goals.

The future of construction lies in a balanced approach, where green building practices and rigorous fire safety standards work hand in hand to shape a safer built environment for us all.