The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has been shortlisted at the 2026 London Construction Awards for research into sprinkler protection for mass timber buildings.
The project, “Fire sprinkler system design for buildings with exposed timber surfaces”, is a finalist in the Fire Safety Solution of the Year category.
Sprinkler protection for mass timber
Developed by Dr Dale Kinnersley, Principal Consultant for RISCAuthority, the FPA administered insurance research scheme, the project produced a fire test based design methodology for sprinkler protection in buildings containing exposed Cross Laminated Timber surfaces.
Running from September 2022 to December 2025, the research examined how automatic sprinkler systems and associated mechanical and electrical fixings could be adapted for buildings containing exposed combustible timber.
It also investigated methods for protecting exposed CLT while maintaining structural and service integrity during fire.
Addressing gaps in fire standards
The research was intended to provide evidence supporting future revisions to UK and European sprinkler standards, which have historically focused on non combustible construction.
Researchers identified gaps in guidance covering the suspension of mechanical and electrical services, including sprinkler pipework. Further investigation also identified limited existing standards covering timber fixings.
Findings from the project have already informed guidance within the LPC Sprinkler Rules and have been proposed for consideration in future revisions of EN 12845 1.
The work also formed the basis of a PhD awarded to Kinnersley in July 2026.
London Construction Awards
Kinnersley said the project focused on improving fire safety in mass timber construction by optimising sprinkler systems and fixing methods to protect occupants and property.
The London Construction Awards ceremony will take place on 25 November 2026 at Excel London.
Other finalists include Advanced, Ajaz Systems, Golden Fred, British Gypsum and Firesense.
