As new building safety regulations and fire safety legislation come into force, it’s important we understand how modular makes our communities safer, alongside fire suppression technology.

 

The Future is Modular 

Modular projects – At the recent Construction Leaders Summit, Construction Minister Nadhim Zahawi MP made a very clear case for modular in the government’s plans to Build Back Better. Advocating for off site modular construction, he described it as “a smart solution to an old problem” and an important part of the government’s Project Speed; to get suppliers and contractors building quicker, safer and better.

 

Modular growth – In McKinsey’s report, The Next Normal in Construction, it was recognised that market characteristics are changing due to new disruptions in the industry. Modular was noted as one of the external disruptors, increasing the demand for affordable housing.

 

Modular collaboration – The Building Safety Bill is expected to come into force in 2023 and is a strong indicator that we need to step up our collaborative efforts if we are to improve construction standards. As the demand for joined up working and sharing of information increases, so too do the obvious collaborative advantages that modular construction provides.

 

Why Modular?

Despite the economic climate we are currently facing it is clear to see why demand for construction projects has not slowed down, taking into consideration the advantages of modular:

 

• Significant time and cost saving advantages
• Despite its speed, buildings are designed to last 50+ years
• Greener building, transport and assembly with less transportation required
• Greater control over build quality – better environment for quality assurance
• Design flexibility – better environment for building additional floors/spaces

 

Where Does Fire Safety Come Into It?

As part of the new building safety legislation which is overseeing the removal of non-ACM cladding from high rise buildings, as of 26 November this year, fire sprinkler systems will be mandatory in all new residential buildings over 11 metres tall, a reduction from 30.

 

As part of these changes, both construction and fire safety professionals will be expected to work more closely to ensure buildings comply with stringent new regulations.

 

How We Are Responding

Here’s how BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems cope with the changing needs of the industry, highlighted by the rise of modular.

 

Better standard materials. As the industry responds to past tragedies with a demand for tighter controls over material quality, modular construction is the perfect environment in which to install fire sprinkler systems made from CPVC. Its recognition as the most specified non-metallic fire protection system material in the world, known for its inherent resistance to heat, flame and corrosion will rise to the challenge of new regulations.

 

Better sustainability. CPVC is both manufactured and installed sustainably, with minimal waste. Modular building is celebrated for its sustainable approach to materials; together with BlazeMaster CPVC, new buildings’ reputation for building greener will only increase.

 

Shorter installation time. One of the biggest problems facing on-site construction is punctual completion of projects. BlazeMaster CPVC gives contractors greater control over the schedule, with a faster, cold installation process that can be implemented while modules are being built.

 

Design flexibility. A key advantage of modular design is the ability to design further. Extending buildings, either by building up or extending out should not be hampered by fire safety limitations. BlazeMaster CPVC can be quickly re-cut and extended to reach new areas, even difficult to reach ones.

 

In conclusion, the future of fire suppression in modular construction is together. The sooner modular construction professionals work together to specify the smartest fire suppression possible, the sooner it can be integrated quickly, efficiently and collaboratively.