Firehalt

Understanding and Mitigating Fire Spread in Building Cavities
In many buildings concealed cavities can act as hidden pathways for fire and smoke, creating a dangerous "chimney effect" that allows flames to spread vertically and horizontally, rapidly. This can put lives and property at significant risk, often catching building occupants and firefighters off-guard.

The Chimney Effect
The "chimney effect" occurs when fire and smoke travel through void spaces in ceilings, walls, and floors. Cavities, often designed for insulation or utilities, can act as channels for rapid fire spread if unprotected. The rising heat creates a draft, accelerating fire spread and compromising evacuation routes and structural integrity before help can arrive.

Passive Fire Protection
To combat this hidden threat, the implementation of passive fire protection measures is critical. Unlike active fire protection systems such as sprinklers or alarms, passive fire protection is built into the structure itself to contain and slow the spread of fire.

Cavity Fire Barriers
One of the most effective passive fire protection methods is the installation of cavity fire barriers. These barriers are designed to segregate void spaces within buildings, effectively compartmentalising potential fire paths. By creating these fire-resistant divisions, cavity barriers can significantly slow or even prevent the spread of fire and smoke through concealed spaces.

Third Party Certification
When specifying passive fire protection products for concealed spaces or roof cavities, it is crucial to ensure they meet UK fire safety standards. Products tested under BS476: parts 20/22 and certified by an approved third party provide assurance of their effectiveness in real-world fire scenarios. This certification is not just a bureaucratic requirement; it is a guarantee that the chosen products will perform as expected when lives are at risk.

Pioneering Passive Fire Protection Solutions
Firehalt, a leading UK manufacturer of passive fire protection solutions, is a trusted name in the fire stopping marketplace. The company offers a comprehensive range of high-performance products to meet the complex challenges of modern building fire protection.

Comprehensive Product Range
Firehalt products include:

• Smoke and flame barriers
• Penetration seals
• Access hatches
   

These solutions are engineered to maintain structural integrity during a fire, providing crucial time for safe evacuation and effective firefighting measures. The versatility of Firehalt products makes them suitable for various applications, including new build industrial facilities, retail spaces, multi-use buildings, and the Repair, Maintenance and Improvement (RMI) sector.

A Holistic Approach to Fire Safety
Firehalt's commitment to fire safety extends beyond product manufacturing. The company promotes best practices in fire safety management through various initiatives:

1.Certification and Testing: All Firehalt products are BRE/LPCB or IFC certificated, ensuring they meet or exceed industry standards
2.Field Application Data: Firehalt provides a portfolio of field application data, helping professionals make informed decisions about product implementation
3.Video Instruction Guides: Firehalt provides comprehensive video guides to ensure correct installation and use
4.Installer Training Scheme: Recognising the importance of correct installation, Firehalt offers local training programmes for installers
5.UK Distribution Network: Firehalt ensures comprehensive stock availability through its distributor network

The Critical Role of Planning Professionals, Building Inspectors, and Architects
For government planning professionals, building inspectors, and architects, understanding and implementing effective passive fire protection measures is paramount.
For planning professionals, building inspectors, and architects, understanding and implementing effective passive fire protection measures is essential. With responsibility for ensuring buildings are designed, constructed, and maintained with fire safety at the forefront, they must ensure full compliance with all relevant regulations.

Integrating Fire Protection from the Start
Architects and planning professionals must consider passive fire protection as an integral part of the building design process, not an afterthought. By incorporating products like Firehalt's fire barriers and penetration seals into the initial design, they can create structures that are inherently safer and more resilient to fire spread.

Rigorous Inspection and Compliance
Building inspectors must be vigilant in ensuring that passive fire protection measures are correctly installed and maintained. This includes verifying that products meet the required standards (such as BS476: parts 20/22) and are installed according to manufacturer specifications and building regulations.

Continuous Education and Awareness
Given the rapid advancements in building materials and fire protection technologies, it's crucial for all professionals in the field to stay informed about the latest developments. Engaging with manufacturers like Firehalt, attending training sessions, and keeping abreast of new regulations are all essential practices.

Prioritising Fire Safety
The sobering reality is that a fire can spread significantly in just 30 seconds. This highlights the critical need for comprehensive passive fire protection in every building project. By specifying high-quality, certified products like those from Firehalt, professionals can greatly enhance building safety and protect lives.
In conclusion, the hidden danger of fire spreading through building cavities requires vigilance, expertise, and reliable passive fire protection. Through collaboration and by utilising the latest technologies, we can create safer buildings and communities. Remember, every second counts – Firehalt, putting safety first.