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Case study: Upgrading Fire Safety

Fireco demonstrates fire door safety compliance, safety and installation with 80 new fire doors case study at Lord’s View One, St. John’s Wood  Situated in the heart of London’s prestigious St. John’s Wood, just a stone’s throw from Regent’s Park and with sweeping views of Lord’s Cricket Ground, Lord’s View One is a purpose-built residential block that offers modern living in a prime location. As part of a recent full refurbishment of the building, the Residents’ Board took the opportunity to enhance fire safety by upgrading 80 internal flat entrance fire doors. With compliance, safety, and aesthetics in mind, Fireco was chosen to deliver the project – and the results have been met with glowing praise.  Identifying the problem: the need for fire door upgrades  Fire doors are a crucial component of any building’s fire safety strategy, particularly in residential blocks where they play a key role in protecting lives by slowing the spread of fire and smoke. Unfortunately, at Lord’s View One, many of the existing fire doors had fallen short of current regulatory standards.  “We replaced the doors because over half of them weren’t compliant with current regulations, and the other half needed substantial remedial work,” explains Sima Elli, resident and coordinator of the fire door project. “Bearing in mind that the building was being fully refurbished, we felt it would be prudent to move ahead with a full replacement.”  However, finding the right company to supply and install the doors proved to be more difficult than anticipated.  “We contacted around a dozen companies that supply and install fire doors,” continues Sima. “But either they were too slow to respond, didn’t respond at all, didn’t supply the full specification we were looking for, or didn’t fill us with confidence.”  The solution: a seamless installation by Fireco  After a challenging search, the Residents’ Board finally found the right fit in Fireco, a trusted provider of certified fire door solutions. From the very first interaction, the team at Fireco made it clear that they were dedicated to delivering not only a compliant solution but also an exceptional customer experience.  “I then spoke to Alex Babbage of Fireco,” says Sima. “He is extremely knowledgeable and attentive and took the time to explain everything meticulously, with so much patience, attending to our priorities and concerns every step of the way.”  The attention to detail continued with an on-site visit, where Alex brought samples of the veneer options and closers, helping the Residents’ Board to make informed decisions. “We felt safe in his hands to commit to moving forward with our order of 80 FD30S walnut veneer doors with concealed closers,” Sima adds.  A team effort: ensuring a smooth process  The successful installation of the fire doors was a result of careful planning and collaboration. Fireco’s team worked closely with the Residents’ Board throughout every stage of the project.  “Jake Trowell attended a site visit to carry out the survey, and Cherri Wheeler worked closely with me to put a schedule of works together,” explains Sima. “Martin Pearce managed the entire project and accommodated our requests efficiently and without a fuss, communicating with me at every juncture.”  The project was completed smoothly and on schedule, leaving the residents of Lord’s View One with fire doors that not only meet the highest safety standards but also enhance the building’s overall look and feel.  The benefits: enhanced safety and comfort  Fireco’s FD30S walnut veneer doors were chosen for their compliance with fire safety regulations, but they offer much more than just peace of mind. The residents have also noticed significant improvements in acoustic and draught insulation.  “The veneer doors themselves are beautiful, and best of all are their incredible acoustic and draught insulation qualities,” says Sima. “We pushed forward with concealed closers, and I think they’re definitely worth forking out the extra for.”  Beyond the practical benefits, the residents were also impressed by the professionalism and friendliness of the Fireco team.  “Such a genuinely lovely, friendly, and hard-working team…a rarity these days,” Sima adds.  A testimonial that says it all  The success of the project is perhaps best summed up in Sima Elli’s testimonial:  “Fireco have been absolutely incredible from start to finish. I am genuinely blown away by the level of service that we have received. Don’t hesitate to give them a call; I’m very glad we did!”  Why choose Fireco?  Fireco is known for its commitment to quality, safety and customer satisfaction. The company offers fully certified, primary-tested doorsets that combine the highest level of quality with the best professional requirements. All door installations are carried out by a network of professionals with third-party BMTRADA accreditation, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.  In addition to installation, Fireco also offers a measure-up and quote service, making it easy for customers to assess their fire door needs.  Safety, compliance and style  The fire door upgrade at Lord’s View One is a great example of how a well-executed fire safety project can enhance not just the safety but also the comfort and aesthetic appeal of a residential building. Thanks to Fireco’s expertise, the residents can now enjoy greater peace of mind, knowing that their home is protected by top-quality, compliant fire doors – all delivered with exceptional service and care.  A proven track record across multiple sectors  Fireco has successfully delivered fire door installation projects across a wide range of environments, demonstrating their versatility and expertise. From large-scale residential developments and housing associations to hospices, care homes, offices and educational buildings, Fireco adapts its service to suit each setting’s unique requirements. This breadth of experience enables Fireco to tackle projects of all sizes and complexities while maintaining consistent safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.  To learn more about Fireco’s fire door installation services and how they can support your fire safety needs, visit www.fireco.uk or speak to an expert: (+44) 01273 320650. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV

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Product spotlight: Fire Suppression for Electric Vehicles and Machines

As increased environmental concerns move vehicles and machines away from traditional diesel engines, battery electric solutions change the reality of fire suppression Many worry about fires in the battery packs and it is true that extinguishing a battery fire is very difficult. The chemical reactions happen quickly, and the battery casing makes it very difficult to reach the blaze.  The good news is, it’s rare that a fire starts inside a battery and research presented at the 2023 FIVE conference shows 50-60% of electric vehicle fires never involve the battery at all. Batteries may catch fire because of thermal runaway, but this is rare. There are mainly two reasons for a battery to start burning: collision or an external fire.   No fire suppression system can protect against collisions, but it can protect against external fires reaching the battery pack. A good fire suppression system should target fire initiators to prevent or delay an external fire from affecting the battery, and can reduce flames from the battery in the unlikely event of it being on fire.  Myths, truths, and knowledge-gaps  Recommendations for fire suppression for electrical vehicles and machines used to focus on dry or gaseous agents. This has changed over the last ten years and water is now considered the best option. Water-mist has a better cooling effect than other suppressants.  But, electricity and water is a no-no, right? We’ve all seen the movie where someone is electrocuted by a radio or blow dryer falling into a tub.   Electric vehicles and machines are built to withstand humidity, rain, and road splash. They have a high ingress protection for any high voltage parts. A water-mist system like Fogmaker’s will not penetrate components with an IP-classification of IP66 or higher.   Many still worry about water in an electric compartment leading to people being electrocuted. Fortunately, this is very unlikely. Even besides being constructed to withstand water, the components being protected aren’t in the same compartment as people. You need to be part of the circuit to get current through your body, and that means you need to make physical contact with both the negative and positive terminals. As an example, birds can sit on power lines because they’re not part of the closed circuit.  Last but not least, the Battery Management System has many safety features to protect from dangerous currents.   The Fogmaker System  Fogmaker’s fire suppression system works with a water-based mist where each single drop of water is split into thousands of tiny droplets. Practically, that means that Fogmaker has a great cooling effect, which is imperative when dealing with fires in electric vehicles. The system is tailored to each type, make, model, and energy source since they all have different risk areas.   The Fogmaker system deploys when the compartment reaches a certain temperature. At this point, the water-based mist fills the compartment, displaces oxygen, and chokes the fire. Fogmaker’s pressurized cylinders ensure the system will work regardless of position – even if the vehicle has toppled upside down – and the systems are designed to keep cooling somewhere between 35 and 90 seconds.  To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Magirus Expands Network in Asia

Magirus will enter into a partnership with Katakura Industries Co., Ltd. in June 2025 to expand its presence in Japan. Sales and service activities will be managed through Katakura’s established subsidiary Nihon Kikai Kogyo Co., Ltd., leveraging its century-long expertise in the Japanese firefighting sector. This collaboration will significantly enhance the availability of Magirus solutions in the Japanese market, with a strong focus on local service, maintenance and customer support. “Katakura brings extensive experience and a powerful network in the Japanese firefighting industry,” says Thomas Hilse, CEO of Magirus. “Together, we aim to provide not only our innovative vehicles and components, but also the trusted, long-term service that fire departments around the world associate with the Magirus name.” “Our partnership with Magirus marks a significant milestone for the Katakura Industries Group,” said Ryosuke Joko, President & CEO of Katakura Industries Co., Ltd. “By combining Magirus’ advanced firefighting technology with the decades of experience and technological expertise of our group company, Nihon Kikai Kogyo, we aim to bring new value to Japan’s disaster prevention in firefighting sectors, contributing to a safer and more sustainable society.” The partnership further expands Magirus’ global service and sales network. Alongside vehicles and technology, customer service is one of the company’s most important pillars. “With reliable local partners, we ensure that everyone using Magirus technology can rely on their equipment for a long time to come,” explains Marc Kuntz, Director Sales and Customer Service. With over 100 years of experience in the Japanese firefighting market and numerous special developments, Nihon Kikai Kogyo is a strong partner for maintenance and repair at the highest level. The company is part of Katakura Industries Co., Ltd. and offers aerial rescue vehicles and special vehicles such as smoke removal vehicles, seawater pumps and large tankers. This expertise provides reliable support for Magirus customers in Japan and significantly expands market opportunities. Japan faces a unique set of civil protection challenges – from earthquakes and tsunamis to the increasing threat of large-scale forest fires. At the same time, complex urban structures require highly specialised firefighting solutions. “We are seeing a clear trend worldwide: the need for efficient high-rise rescue solutions is growing rapidly,” says Hilse. “With our proven turntable ladders and specialised equipment, we are ideally positioned to support the fire departments in Japan – now and in the future”. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Survitec Urges Action on Upcoming Fire Safety Regulations

Survitec is calling on shipowners, ship managers, and shipyards to prepare for a significant change to international fire protection regulations. From 1st January 2026, fixed water monitors will be required on the weather decks of RORO and ROPAX ships under amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the FSS Code, approved by the IMO’s 107th MSC session. The decision follows an increasing number of serious fire incidents involving vehicle cargo, including several high-profile incidents involving electric vehicles (EVs), that have exposed the limitations of existing fire protection measures. As Rafał Kołodziejski, Head of Product Support and Development – Fire Systems at Survitec, explains, “The open and expansive nature of vehicle decks means that a fire can escalate very quickly, potentially spreading across the entire length of the ship. “This incoming regulatory requirement puts a renewed focus on practical fire suppression systems that can be deployed quickly and effectively to extinguish or control a fire in these large, open deck spaces.” Water is often the preferred choice of medium due to its efficient cooling properties; however, traditional sprinkler or deluge systems may not be sufficient. Fixed water monitors provide a rapid-response solution that can deliver additional, targeted, high-performance firefighting coverage. They are also a cost-effective, practical solution for smaller ships, where traditional deluge systems may be difficult to retrofit or maintain. Remote-controlled options can be installed when access is limited and prevents manual operation. These allow crew to operate the water monitor from a safe location, providing additional firefighting capacity at reduced risk to crew. The new rules specify that two fixed water monitors are required on ships with a breadth of less than 30 metres, and four monitors on wider ships. They must also deliver a minimum of 2.0 litres per minute per square metre, with a total flow of at least 1,250 litres per minute. Michał Sadzyński, Product Manager at Survitec, stated, “Understanding how to interpret and apply the new rules is as important as the technical specification of the equipment itself. We can advise customers on the various monitor types that can be implemented to meet the new requirements, including manually operated, self-oscillating, hydraulic, and electrically controlled systems. Each type brings different advantages depending on the ship’s configuration, operating conditions, and available firefighting infrastructure. “Selecting the appropriate solution requires carefully assessing deck layout, coverage requirements, water supply capacity, and operational needs. Key considerations for equipment selection include operational reliability, ease of maintenance, installation flexibility, and environmental durability. Our water monitors also benefit from features such as corrosion-resistant construction and integrated cold-weather protection to ensure long-term effectiveness, essential for ships operating in varied or harsh conditions.” As a maritime fire safety specialist, Survitec offers a wide range of water monitors as part of its fire safety portfolio and is well-placed to support its customers with technical consultancy and advice on implementation as part of a complete safety management solution. “Prevention is always better than cure, especially where EV fires are concerned. Early monitoring and detection of fire remain key safety factors, but fixed water monitors can play a vital role in supporting a rapid, targeted response to contain and suppress fire,” adds Kołodziejski. “Many in the industry are still unaware of the upcoming 2026 deadline. As the Team Trusted to Protect Lives, we welcome the opportunity to support our customers with this important development. While the regulation change represents a technical requirement, it is also a vital step forward in protecting lives and assets at sea.” To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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East Bay Park District Launches $10.9m Wildfire Mitigation Project

The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) has announced the start of a three-year, $10.9 million wildfire prevention initiative aimed at reducing fire risk by removing dead and dying trees across hundreds of acres of parkland. According to district officials, the project will focus on 600 acres within the East Bay, targeting overgrown and hazardous vegetation to help prevent the spread of catastrophic wildfires. The effort will be supported by $8.3 million in external funding, including $6.1 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), $2.1 million from the California State Coastal Conservancy, and $100,000 from the U.S. Forest Service. Fuel reduction work will be concentrated in five key areas: Anthony Chabot, Tilden, and Wildcat Canyon regional parks, as well as Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve and the Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline. A notable element of the project is the use of a high-temperature “carbonizer”—a machine that burns vegetation at 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit in low-oxygen conditions. This method results in lower emissions compared to open burning or transporting debris with diesel-powered trucks. The initiative represents a major investment in long-term wildfire resilience for the East Bay, pairing federal and local funding with innovative land management techniques to protect ecosystems and communities. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Hyundai Glovis Enhances EV Carrier Fire Safety with New Real-Time Detection System

Hyundai Glovis Enhances EV Carrier Fire Safety with New Real-Time Detection System

Hyundai Glovis has begun deploying an advanced onboard fire detection system across its fleet of electric vehicle (EV) carrier ships, in a move aimed at strengthening safety standards amid rising concerns over lithium-ion battery fires. Developed by Consilium Safety Group, the Safety Management Interface Graphics (SMiG) system is being installed on vessels operated by Hyundai Glovis, which handles more than 50% of South Korea’s EV export logistics. The initiative, launched in 2024, is part of a broader strategy to improve real-time situational awareness for crews managing fire risks at sea. The SMiG system integrates data from onboard smoke and heat detectors, converting it into an interactive visual map that pinpoints potential fire locations in real time. This contrasts with traditional systems that typically provide only approximate coordinates. During a recent drill on the 65,000-ton cargo vessel Sunrise, SMiG identified a simulated fire using a blinking red marker—allowing crew members to assess and respond to the hazard with increased speed and accuracy. “Data from across the ships is translated into something visual and actionable,” said Isak Nordberg, Global Product Manager at Consilium. “It’s designed to give early warnings when every second counts, often giving crews up to four extra minutes.” He added: “Decisions that once depended on guesswork were now grounded in data.” Consilium has indicated plans to adapt the SMiG system for use in land-based environments, including multi-storey car parks and logistics centres – facilities where lithium-ion battery fires also present growing risks. “In a garage, four minutes might not be enough to act,” Nordberg explained. “But if we could stretch that to 12, firefighters might have a realistic chance of reaching the location on time.” He noted that unlike at sea, land-based fire detection often relies on external emergency response, making early warnings even more critical. Consilium is exploring the potential for collaboration with vehicle manufacturers to access real-time battery temperature data. Such data sharing could enhance SMiG’s predictive capabilities and extend the early detection window. “Those four minutes of early detection might stretch to 12 if we had that data,” said Nordberg. “This is the kind of innovation we must continue pursuing through collaborations to make places safer.” The rollout of SMiG across Hyundai Glovis’ EV carrier fleet signals a growing emphasis on integrated, data-driven safety technologies as the maritime sector adapts to the challenges posed by electric vehicle transport. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Survitec Expands Nordic Fire Safety Capabilities with NOHA Marine Division Acquisition

Survitec has strengthened its marine safety portfolio in the Nordic region through the acquisition of NOHA Norway AS’s Marine Fire Service business, previously based in Ålesund. The move brings a team of seven fire safety specialists under the Survitec brand, enhancing its ability to deliver integrated marine safety services across Norway and the wider region. Survitec confirmed that Ålesund will remain a strategic base. Already known for its role in supporting the Nordic ferry and offshore sectors through Marine Evacuation Systems, liferafts, and survival technology, the site will now incorporate marine fire services – particularly in Water Mist systems – into its operations. The company stated that the integration will streamline its service delivery, enabling more cohesive coordination across product and service lines. Eric Herman, Executive Managing Director, Marine Europe at Survitec, welcomed the acquisition, saying: “Norway is a strategic growth market for Survitec, and this acquisition underlines our continued investment in providing customers with comprehensive, integrated safety solutions. By welcoming the NOHA marine fire service team into our business, we are not only expanding our service capacity, we are also gaining decades of specialist knowledge and an exceptional reputation for customer service that will directly benefit our customers.” Jan Eskil Hollen, Managing Director for Marine Nordics, added: “This acquisition expands our operational footprint and reinforces our commitment to the Norwegian market. By combining their deep technical expertise with Survitec’s global service network and legacy of innovation, we will accelerate the delivery of integrated fire and survival solutions across the region.” NOHA Nordics’ Managing Director Frode Lemvik commented: “We wish our colleagues a fond farewell; this acquisition will enable them to continue to thrive in a business fully focused on protecting the marine industry.” NOHA confirmed that the transfer reflects a strategic shift in its operations, allowing the company to focus on other areas of its business, while supporting the former team members in their new roles within Survitec. The acquisition aligns with Survitec’s broader strategy to expand its core safety service capabilities. With the addition of NOHA’s marine fire specialists, the company reinforces its presence in a key market and accelerates its delivery of integrated safety solutions across the Nordic maritime sector. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Euralarm Unveils Interpretation Sheet to Support Remote Fire and Security Systems Services

Euralarm has released a new interpretation sheet to help service providers deliver secure, standards-compliant remote services for fire safety and security systems. The document builds on previous guidance, offering expanded clarifications, practical advice, and responses to frequently asked questions related to EN 50710. EN 50710 – Requirements for the provision of secure remote services for fire safety systems and security systems – was published by CEN-CENELEC in 2021 and developed by the CEN/CLC/JTC 4 committee, with strong involvement from Euralarm’s Services section. The standard aims to support the safe, reliable deployment of remote servicing across the Fire Safety and Security Systems (FSSS) sector, reassuring service providers, insurers, and end-users. Euralarm’s initial guidance, published in 2022, helped organisations assess their readiness to meet the standard. More recently, in early 2025, Euralarm followed with a guide on best practices for contracting cloud services, reflecting the sector’s reliance on remote connectivity. The new interpretation sheet addresses emerging questions about the standard’s implementation—particularly as CEN-CENELEC does not issue official interpretations. Euralarm has taken the initiative to fill that gap, creating a clear, practical tool for its members. The document is split into two key sections: Tab One builds on the 2022 checklist, offering in-depth interpretations and recommendations for each clause. It also indicates whether each requirement concerns the Remote Access Infrastructure (RAI), the FSSS products themselves, or the provider’s organisational processes. Tab Two compiles frequently asked questions, offering broader context on issues not tied to specific clauses. This resource is designed for service providers who aim to deliver compliant remote services under EN 50710. As Euralarm notes, achieving compliance involves more than technology alone—it also demands clear organisational procedures. The interpretation sheet is intended to help providers align their operations and infrastructure with the standard, boosting both compliance and confidence. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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Fire Sector Confederation Aims to Strengthen Fire Safety in Sports Grounds - Fire Buyer

Fire Sector Confederation Aims to Strengthen Fire Safety in Sports Grounds

The Fire Sector Confederation has officially launched its new Sports Grounds Special Interest (Fire Safety) Group, following a well-attended inaugural meeting involving nearly 40 stakeholders from across the UK’s sports venue landscape. Chaired by Paul Brunt, fire safety manager at Manchester United Football Club, the group is designed to unite a broad range of participants – including representatives from the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA), fire safety officers, equipment suppliers, consultants, local authorities, and venue operators. The objective is to create a collaborative space for sharing expertise and improving fire safety outcomes at sports grounds. The group’s formation is the result of several months of preparation led by the Confederation’s executive director Steve McGuirk, Paul Brunt, and Tim Burgin of the SGSA. Steve McGuirk commented: “We’re delighted that this Special Interest Network is now up-and-running, providing a unique platform for professionals with an interest in sports ground safety to join forces and focus on developing guidance, influencing standards and improving communication in order to prevent fires in sports venues.” He continued: “The work of our Special Interest Networks drives the agenda for the National Fire Safety Strategy Board and the Fire Congress, duly helping to inform and shape policy.” Reflecting on the group’s launch, Paul Brunt said: “This is an important milestone in our drive to improve fire safety across all sports grounds in the UK and I’m honoured to be the inaugural chair. The initial response has been incredibly positive with enthusiastic participation from football, rugby and cricket clubs right across the country. It’s a unique platform for sharing Best Practice and tackling challenges collaboratively such that we inform the best possible safety standards.” The group includes representation from a wide spectrum of the sports sector, including Premier League and EFL football clubs, rugby union and league teams, cricket grounds, horseracing venues, as well as industry experts and Government fire safety advisors. With broad engagement and a clear remit, the Sports Grounds Special Interest (Fire Safety) Group aims to support policy development, elevate standards, and strengthen collaboration across the sports and fire safety sectors. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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London Unites to Tackle Cladding Crisis Through Joint Remediation Push - Fire Buyer

London Unites to Tackle Cladding Crisis Through Joint Remediation Push

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling the capital’s cladding crisis, aligning with central Government, the London Fire Brigade, and London Councils to accelerate the removal of unsafe materials from high-risk residential buildings. The renewed effort comes as part of a broader push to ensure that all residential blocks over 11 metres with dangerous cladding are fully remediated or scheduled for completion by the end of 2029. In the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, which claimed 72 lives, the issue of flammable cladding has remained one of the most critical building safety challenges facing London. The capital, with four times the national average of high-rise homes, has consistently lagged in remediation efforts. Currently, over 1,500 buildings enrolled in Government-backed remediation programmes in London have yet to begin on-site work. Since taking office, Khan has prioritised resident safety by enforcing stricter planning policies through the London Plan and by channelling funding into remediation initiatives. Under his leadership, the London Fire Brigade has implemented all recommendations from the first phase of the Grenfell Inquiry and introduced significant changes to improve response capabilities. On 6 May, the newly formed Joint Remediation Partnership Board met for the first time. Co-chaired by Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development Tom Copley and Building and Fire Safety Minister Alex Norris, the Board includes stakeholders from Government departments, local authorities, housing associations, fire services, and regulatory bodies. Designed to break the logjam in building safety progress, the Board will oversee London’s remediation trajectory—an area where responsibility is fragmented across numerous entities. Both Khan and Norris have emphasised that no single organisation can resolve the crisis alone, and success will depend on collaboration across all levels of government. The strategy reinforces the Government’s national goal: by 2029, all residential buildings above 11 metres with identified unsafe cladding must be remediated or have works scheduled. Failure to act may result in legal and financial penalties for building owners. Speaking at the launch, Mayor Khan called the initiative a long-overdue step: “This is a significant step forward in speeding up the removal of dangerous cladding in London. I will not stop until we can say with confidence that the failings which led to Grenfell will never be repeated.” Minister Alex Norris echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need for speed: “Nearly eight years on, too many people still live in unsafe homes. I’m pleased to be working with the GLA to accelerate remediation and restore public confidence.” The London Fire Brigade has also welcomed the move. Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley stressed that the persistence of dangerous cladding is placing unacceptable strain on leaseholders and residents: “The Joint Remediation Partnership Board, and the support of the Mayor, are crucial in driving action. Residents continue to face uncertainty and financial burden due to delays, and this must change.” “Those responsible for residential buildings have a legal obligation. We will continue to support identification and remediation to protect Londoners.” The formation of the Joint Remediation Partnership Board signals a united front in addressing one of London’s most persistent post-Grenfell challenges. With political alignment, regulatory focus, and fire service oversight, the capital now has a central platform to drive systemic change in cladding safety. But turning strategy into safety will require more than ambition—it demands sustained coordination, enforcement, and investment. To read more news and articles see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: International Fire Buyer Twitter (X): @Firebuyer YouTube: @FireBuyerTV Media Contact Rebecca Spayne, Managing Editor, International Fire Buyer Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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