The Smoke Control Association (SCA) has backed the recent government announcement outlining plans for a review on sprinklers in high rise buildings but has reaffirmed its stance on improving building safety by calling for an ‘all-inclusive’ approach towards fire safety systems.

This latest announcement outlines the government’s intention to move forwards in considering options for reducing the height threshold at which sprinkler systems would be required from the current requirement of 30 metres to a lower height threshold. The consultation is also asking for views on proposals to change Approved Document B in order to improve wayfinding signage in blocks of flats and the provision of evacuation alert systems for use by the fire service.

Although the SCA is encouraged at the progress being made following Dame Judith Hackitt’s recommendations on fire safety reform, it would like to see further developments in the implementation of fire safety solutions that can work alongside sprinklers to better protect residents.

David Mowatt, Chairman of the SCA, comments: “When it comes to fire safety in high rise buildings it’s vital that we take a well-rounded approach in considering products and systems that can reduce the spread of fire, keep escape routes clear, improve access for the fire services and ultimately save lives.

“The SCA has previously held joint discussions with the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) in order to review shared aims and objectives and will continue to promote a collective approach to raising standards in the fire safety industry.”