James Clarke, Senior Associate and Forensic Fire Engineer at Hawkins, was recently invited to deliver a technical presentation to Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service on the fire safety design and construction of external walls in multi-storey buildings. The session focused on the application of PAS 9980:2022, a procedure for conducting Fire Risk Appraisals of External Walls (FRAEWs).
The presentation began with an overview of the UK’s fire safety framework, including legislative changes following the Grenfell Tower fire. James outlined key amendments to the Building Regulations and the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022, which have significantly influenced fire safety practices in the built environment.
A detailed explanation of PAS 9980:2022 was given, covering its risk-based approach to assessing external wall systems. James described the assessment process, relevant risk factors, and the importance of competent evaluations. He also reviewed various types of external wall construction, including rainscreen cladding, external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS), composite panels, glazed facades, and curtain walling. He explored the common issues encountered during fire risk assessments, such as misidentification of wall systems, incorrect assumptions about building design, and the absence of site inspections.
James holds a first-class honours degree in Mechanical Engineering and has extensive experience in fire engineering design and fire safety management. He specialises in the analysis of fire incidents and the evaluation of external wall systems, including EWS1 assessments and passive fire protection measures.
If you would like James, or a Hawkins expert from any other discipline to investigate a case or present to your organisation, please get in touch.
