While timber frame buildings have an enviable fire safety record in use, the sector has suffered from publicity following several high-profile construction site fires caused by arson. Working closely with the HSE, ABI and the fire service, the industry has thoroughly researched the matter, which has included a large number of full-scale fire tests.

As a result the timber frame industry has become the first construction sector to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based, fire risk management approach for construction sites.  The first half of this seminar will look at:

• Background to the issue: some statistics and facts on the problem experienced with arson.
• Research programme: A summary of the practical work undertaken including a large-scale fire test programme.
• The UK Timber Frame Association guidance: An explanation of the documented practical risk management approach developed and approved by the HSE, ABI and the fire service.  Printed copies of the guidance will be handed out to all delegates.

Having addressed the issue of managing the risk of arson on construction sites, the more pressing long-term issue is designing energy-efficient timber frame buildings. This seminar assumes that the audience understands the drivers for designing and building to much tougher standards and concentrates on the details that can achieve it:

• Practical and cost-efficient wall, floor and roof details
• Thermal bridging issues and details
• Achieving excellent air tightness through design.

Speakers:

Rupert Scott MIFireE, TRATA Membership Manager

Lewis Taylor, Technical consultant for TRADA Technology