Ignore PFP installation at your peril: a recent preposition, made by the Association for Specialist Fire Protection to main contractors with regard to clarifying and highlighting the correct and inadequate installations of passive fire protection in buildings, appears to have fallen on deaf ears - ASFP - PFP - Prevention Focus

An offer to explain the possible pitfalls and consequences of inadequate fitting, sent by the ASFP to 100 main contractors, generated a response of absolutely zero.

According to the ASFP, only two factors could have caused such a result. Firstly, there is comprehensive awareness of the consequences involved in inadequate installation and secondly, a serious lack of consideration with regard to PFP exists among the UK's construction giants.

The installation or application of passive fire protection is a specialist activity upon which, in the event of a fire, the life safety of the occupants and users of a building may well depend.

If PFP installation is ignored, or worse disregarded, says the ASFP, serious consequences could arise.

For example, failure to install the required fire resistance in any building could result in a charge of corporate manslaughter. Also, failure by an employer or building occupier to carry out risk assessment, is a criminal offence.

Any risk assessment (subsequently undertaken) that finds the PFP is incorrectly or inadequately installed could spawn lengthy and costly negligence claims.

Case law also shows that failure to adequately control so-called `specialist' sub contractors can result in substantial fines and costs under the health and safety legislation and CDM/Environmental legislation requires proper control and administration when specialist technical products are being used.

All these factors are serious issues that can prove very costly if ignored. PFP installations must be carried out in full accordance with the Building Regulations.

ASFP contractor members have the specialised skills and detailed knowledge required. They issue Certificates of Conformity that are backed by a UKAS accredited third party installer scheme and these will provide confidence in the appropriate standard of workmanship as discussed in Building Regulations, Approved Document B.

In order to enhance awareness of the issues, the ASFP is prepared to arrange group discussions or short presentations to interested contract management directors.

The ASFP can be contacted at Association House, 99 West Street Farnham, Surrey GU9 7EN; Tel: 01252 739142; Fax: 01252 739140; Email: info@associationhouse.org.uk

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