FIRE SAFETY & SECURITY
A NEW STANDARD
DON ’ T COMPROMISE ON AESTHETICS FOR PERFORMANCE
The release of the Draft Building Safety Bill , alongside the formation of the new National Construction Products Regulator , is paving the way for a new standard of compliance that ensures safety consistently remains the top priority throughout each stage of the design , construction and maintenance processes .
However , achieving these aims should not have to come at the expense of aesthetics . Here Mick Hill , Lead Technical Manager at Profab Access , discusses how architects and specifiers can secure specifications that achieve the highest standards of safety and adherence with latest legal requirements , without having to compromise on style .
As riser doors offer convenient and safe access to essential services for ongoing maintenance , their primary motivation for specification is one of practicality and functionality , rather than visual appeal .
However , latest industry advancements are paving the way for a new generation of riser doors that deliver the highest standards in fire certification and performance , yet have simultaneously been designed and manufactured to help enhance the project ’ s interior aesthetic .
Achieving this optimum balance between style and substance can be facilitated through the specification of steel riser doors that seamlessly integrate into masonry walls , shaft walls and drywall partitions to deliver an unobtrusive finish , without impeding the ease of access for engineers .
Taking this theme one step further , by specifying riser doors that offer the ability to create bespoke facades , architects and designers can actually utilise the riser doors to complement and enhance the surrounding interior , rather than detracting from the chosen visual appeal .
For example , steel riser doors that can be clad in a range of additional materials , including stone , ceramic , marble and tiles can support the creation of a unified aesthetic that completely disguises the riser door , without affecting its fire combustibility or overall performance , as permeant means of access to mechanical and electrical services is unaffected .
This type of riser door is a popular choice for busy commercial applications , including reception areas and public washrooms , due to the facade being the exact same material as the surrounding walls .
While cladding a riser door in different materials may present initial concerns with regard to the combustibility and fire performance of the overall installation , professionals can ensure compliance and provide the highest levels of protection and suitability for the entire lifecycle of the building by specifying riser doors that have been third party tested .
In line with the recommendations outlined within the Draft Building Safety Bill and in accordance with the guidelines shared by the National Construction Products Regulator , by choosing riser doors that have undergone extensive evaluation , are independently certified and supported by comprehensive test certification , architects can demonstrate a clear trail of due diligence in accordance with relevant regulations .
Throughout the specification process , architects should also ensure the riser doors they are choosing are smoke sealed and Airtight in accordance with Part L . In the event of a fire , the riser doors will maintain their integrity for up to two hours , limiting the spread of fire for this period of time .
By selecting riser doors that are also equipped with an intumescent smoke seal , it ensures occupants will be able to safely exit in the event of a fire , whilst also minimising potential damage to the rest of the building .
When specifying these components , architects should work closely with manufacturers that provide extensive information , including BIM and CAD files , alongside technical evidence to document the suitability of the product for its chosen application . This will ensure the installation is fit for purpose for the entire lifecycle of the building .
By taking an alternative approach to the specification of riser doors , professionals can achieve an installation that enhances , rather than detracts , from the chosen interior design scheme , without having to compromise on the overall performance and compliance of the product .
For further information on Profab Access and its range of access panels , riser doors and steel doors , call + 44 ( 0 ) 1827 719051 or visit www . profabaccess . com .
ARCHETECH - PAGE 52