fire safety
Hitting the roof of fire prevention A
recent devastating fire at a hospital research centre in Manchester has highlighted,
once again, the potential risks of using naked flames in roofing works. It may seem obvious that using naked
flame application, with blowtorches and canisters, runs the risk of fire; yet misconceptions mean the technique is still widely used. “Many people habitually specify
bitumen felt, believing it’s the fastest and most-cost-effective option,” said Dean Grady, product manager at Sika Sarnafil. “However, few realise the full risks of
application and have ill-founded perceptions about flame-free alternatives. “The truth is that safer alternatives,
such as single-ply, provide the same degree of, or in many instances increased, waterproofing longevity while still being budget friendly and rapid to install.”
Changing perceptions Progression relies on innovation and embracing new technologies, he added. “Specifying naked flame-applied
roofing systems for sensitive areas when they are so dependent on the expertise of the installer, seems like a backwards step,” said Grady. Naked flame application is also
coupled with other hazards, such as the health and safety of installers working with hot bitumen. Canisters must be caged and chained
up when they are not in use, another cost and time implication, whereas a flame-free alternative completely eliminates this issue. “Countless hospital flat roofs in the
UK are covered by bituminous systems,” said Grady. “For many refurbishment projects,
specifiers quickly opt for repairs, or an overlay, of the same roof covering, requiring naked flame works. “But, what may seem like a cost-
effective decision in the short term can actually be far from it when considering the whole-life cost of the product, including maintenance and the risk of fire.” Alternative methods such as single ply can eradicate the need for naked
flames on site and can upgrade a roof’s thermal performance. In addition, works can be carried out when buildings are in use, minimising disruption. Modern roofing products utilise
a minimal amount of hot air welding applied through 20-40mm nozzles and directed accurately onto non- combustible substrates, making for a much-safer option.
Don’t take the risk Grady said: “In this day and age, when we have high-quality, viable and cost- effective alternatives; the worry of fire shouldn’t have to be a concern. “Instead, we are still seeing the
devastating effects on hospitals and other public buildings across the country. “The bottom line should always be
the safety of roofers and the public. “In response to the evidence,
building owners and managers should look towards flame-free technologies to avoid the risks of huge disruption and financial impact in the future.”
gbr.sarnafil.sika.com healthcaredm.co.uk 57
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