INTERIORS
15
Fighting fires: an unlikely washroom hero
In the post-Grenfell landscape, fire safety in commercial washrooms is a critical issue. Carole Armstrong of Delabie UK explains how WC frames can sit at the centre of a project’s fire strategy for preventing the spread of flame.
F
ire safety is not the first thing that springs to mind when specifying non- domestic washrooms. The very fact that there is water literally on tap makes the concept almost counter-intuitive. However, in the wake of the Grenfell enquiry, fire safety is firmly on the agenda and specifiers are now much more attuned to the risk that fire poses in all aspects of building design. What is less obvious is the role that the choice of sanitary fittings in washrooms can play in improving fire safety.
Fire requires three things to spread: heat, oxygen and fuel. Once the initial spark has ignited a fire, the rate of spread depends on the availability of all these three factors. A significant aspect of reducing the risk lies with preventative measures, i.e. eliminating fuel sources as far as possible and reducing the potential for heat transfer. Of course, the ready availability of oxygen means that trained firefighters are best placed to actively deal with limiting its access to burning material.
Fire-retardant sanitaryware Post-Grenfell, material choice is definitely the topic-du-jour and in washrooms, fire- retardant finishes for floors, ceilings and wall surfaces can all contribute to slowing the spread of fire.
When specifying sanitaryware, flammability is not even a consideration. Porcelain does not burn and, in the event of a fire, it will not release toxic substances or produce smoke. Similarly, stainless steel does not carry a fire rating because it cannot ignite, and it will only start to melt at temperatures over 1,400°C. When it comes to fire safety, sanitaryware can be specified for its aesthetic qualities as well as its ability to prevent the spread of fire. There is one aspect of washroom design
Stainless steel sanitary ware helps slow the spread of fire © DELABIE
that can have a positive impact on fire safety, and it is possibly the least obvious solution. In a situation where every second can make a massive difference to the outcome, there is one unsung washroom hero that can potentially be a life-saver. The toilet. Or, to be more precise, the components and frame that accompany the toilet pan.
Intumescent frame systems This unassuming assembly of a steel frame, flush valve and evacuation pipe can reduce the spread of fire in three specific areas.
Sanitaryware can be specified for its aesthetic qualities as well as its ability to prevent the spread of fire
Interiors_ Bathrooms & Washrooms -
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21/11/2024 11:13
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