Fire Barrier Installation & Maintenance

Every Second Counts. Fire Barriers Save Lives and Property.

Designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through hidden building cavities, our FIRAS & BM Trada accredited team are renowned for achieving excellence in fire barrier installations.
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Call Us: 01536 211999
Or send us an email: info@midsummerfirepro.co.uk
FIRAS & BMTRADA Accredited Contractor
UK-wide Service Coverage
Effective Fire Barrier Solutions
Strict Compliance with Regulations

Secure Your Property and Occupants with Midsummer's FIRAS Accredited Fire Barrier Solutions.

At Midsummer Fire Protection, we understand that proper fire stopping saves lives and maintains building integrity during fires. Precision in installation is essential to ensure comprehensive fire safety.

Cavity fire barriers are vital in modern buildings, preventing fire and smoke spread through hidden spaces in walls and floors. Made from fire-resistant materials, these barriers compartmentalise the building, slowing fire spread and providing extra time for safe evacuation.

These barriers are crucial for both compliance and responsible design. By containing fire and smoke, they reduce structural damage and support firefighting efforts.

Make an Enquiry

Simply fill in the form below and we'll be in touch to discuss your requirements.
Fire Stopping Quote Form
Call Us: 02039 585999
Or send us an email: info@midsummerfirepro.co.uk

The Fire Risks of Building Cavities

Cavities in building construction are essential yet often overlooked. These gaps, found in walls and floors, serve crucial roles:

  • Moisture Barrier: Keep interiors dry.
  • Thermal Insulation: Enhance energy efficiency.
  • Service Concealment: Hide wiring and plumbing.

However, cavities also pose fire risks, acting as channels for flames and gases. This rapid spread can compromise structural integrity and reduce evacuation time.

Effective fire safety involves understanding these risks and using fire cavity barriers to prevent fire and smoke spread, ensuring a safer building.

What is a Cavity Fire Barrier?

Cavity fire barriers are crucial components in the fire safety design of buildings. They are specifically engineered to seal off cavities in walls and floors, preventing the spread of fire and smoke within these concealed spaces.

Fire Barrier Composition and Design

Fire barriers are typically made from fire-resistant materials such as intumescent compounds, mineral fibres, or fire-rated board systems. These materials are chosen for their ability to withstand high temperatures and prevent the passage of flames and hot gases. The intumescent materials are particularly noteworthy; they expand when exposed to heat, effectively sealing off the cavity and stopping the fire's progression.

The design of these barriers is tailored to fit snugly within the cavities they are meant to protect. This includes consideration for the size and shape of the cavity, as well as the specific fire-resistance rating required based on the building's design and use. The barriers must be installed correctly to ensure they remain in place and function as intended during a fire.

Differences from Other Fire Prevention Systems

While fire cavity barriers are designed to contain fire within cavities, other fire prevention systems like firestops and cavity closers serve different purposes:

Firestops: These are systems used to seal openings and joints in fire-resistance-rated wall or floor assemblies. Firestops are crucial for preventing the spread of fire and smoke through openings created for pipes, cables, or other penetrations. Unlike cavity barriers, which are used within the concealed spaces of a building, firestops are applied to visible gaps and openings.

Cavity Closers: Cavity closers are used to seal the edges of cavities around window and door openings. They primarily serve to prevent moisture ingress and improve thermal insulation. While some cavity closers may have fire-resistant properties, their primary function is not fire containment, unlike fire cavity barriers.
Fire barriers are specialised installations designed to prevent the spread of fire within the hidden cavities of a building. Their unique composition and design differentiate them from other fire prevention systems like firestops and cavity closers, each serving distinct roles in a comprehensive fire safety strategy.

Fire Cavity Barrier Installation

The effective installation and strategic placement of fire cavity barriers are critical for maximizing their efficacy in preventing the spread of fire and smoke within a building. Adhering to specific guidelines and standards is essential for ensuring that these barriers perform as intended in the event of a fire.

Guidelines for Fire Barrier Installation

Strategic Placement: Fire cavity barriers should be installed in all concealed spaces where fire can potentially spread. This includes cavities within walls, above ceilings, and below floors, especially in multi-story buildings. They are typically placed at junctions between floors and walls, around openings for services, and in continuous runs within cavity walls.
Compliance with Regulations: The installation of fire barriers must comply with relevant building regulations and fire safety standards. In the UK, for instance, this would involve adherence to the guidelines set out in Approved Document B of the Building Regulations.
Material Suitability: The materials used for cavity barriers must be suitable for the specific type of cavity they are protecting. This includes considerations for the barrier's fire resistance rating, which should match or exceed the minimum requirements for the building's classification.
Sealing and Fixing: Proper sealing and fixing of the barriers are crucial to prevent gaps or weaknesses where fire and smoke could penetrate. This often involves the use of intumescent seals or other fire-resistant fixings.

Installing Fire Barriers During Building Construction

During Construction: The best time to install fire cavity barriers is during the construction phase of a building. This allows for the barriers to be integrated seamlessly into the building's structure, ensuring comprehensive coverage and adherence to fire safety design principles.
Cost-Effectiveness: Incorporating fire barriers during construction is typically more cost-effective than retrofitting them later. It eliminates the need for potentially disruptive and expensive structural modifications after the building is completed.
Customisation and Optimisation: During construction, there is greater flexibility to customise and optimise the fire barriers for the specific needs of the building. This can include tailored solutions for complex architectural designs or special use cases.

Installing Fire Barriers in Older Buildings

Historical Preservation: In historic or older buildings, it's crucial to balance fire safety with preservation. Retrofitting fire cavity barriers should be done with sensitivity to the building's historical value, ensuring that any interventions are reversible and do not adversely affect the structure's character.
Technological Advancements: Older buildings may not have been designed with modern fire safety technology in mind. Retrofitting provides an opportunity to upgrade the building's fire safety features using the latest advancements in fire-resistant materials and installation techniques.
Regulatory Compliance: For older buildings, ensuring compliance with current fire safety regulations can be challenging. Retrofitting fire barriers must be done in accordance with contemporary building codes and standards, which may have evolved significantly since the original construction of the building.
Assessment and Planning: A thorough assessment of the existing structure is essential to identify all potential fire risks. This should be followed by a detailed planning process to determine the most effective locations and types of cavity barriers needed, considering the unique architectural features and materials of the building.
Professional Expertise: Retrofitting fire barriers in older buildings often requires specialised knowledge and expertise. It's important to engage professionals who are experienced in dealing with the complexities of older structures to ensure that the installation is effective and preserves the integrity of the building.
Historical building example where fire barriers require additional consideration
Incorporating fire cavity barriers during the construction phase and retrofitting them in older buildings are both critical for ensuring comprehensive fire safety. Each scenario presents unique challenges and considerations, requiring careful planning, expertise, and adherence to fire safety standards.

Discuss Your Fire Barrier Requirements With Us Today and Save Lives and Property

By getting the assessment and fire barrier solutions you need, you'll be protecting lives and buildings, meeting regulations, and protecting your business. Simply get in touch via one of our contact methods and our team will:
Be in touch to discuss your current situation and future requirements.
Carry out a thorough assessment of your property to pinpoint fire hazards and detect any unsealed openings or gaps.
Devise and implement a bespoke fire stopping strategy tailored to the specific needs of your property, ensuring comprehensive protection.
Commit to beyond installation; we conduct regular inspections and maintenance to uphold the efficacy of your fire stopping measures over time.

Make an Enquiry

Simply fill in the form below and we'll be in touch to discuss your requirements.
Fire Stopping Quote Form
Call Us: 02039 585999
Or send us an email: info@midsummerfirepro.co.uk

Fire Barrier Regulations & Safety Standards

Understanding the legal and safety standards governing fire cavity barriers is crucial for compliance and ensuring the utmost safety in building construction and maintenance. In the UK, these standards are particularly stringent, reflecting the critical role of fire safety in protecting lives and property.

UK Building Regulations and Standards

Approved Document B: This document is part of the Building Regulations in England, setting out the requirements for fire safety in both new and existing buildings. It specifies the necessary fire resistance levels for cavity barriers, their placement, and the materials used in their construction.
BS 9999 - Fire Safety in the Design, Management and Use of Buildings: This British Standard provides a comprehensive guide to fire safety management and design. It includes detailed recommendations for the installation of fire cavity barriers, considering various building types and uses.
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005: This order applies to all non-domestic premises in England and Wales, including the common parts of multi-occupied residential buildings. It mandates regular fire safety risk assessments, which include the inspection and maintenance of fire cavity barriers.

The Grenfell Tower Incident and Its Implications

The tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in June 2017, which resulted in significant loss of life, marked a turning point in fire safety awareness and regulation in the UK. The incident highlighted critical failures in fire safety measures, including issues related to cladding and cavity barriers.
Increased Scrutiny on Cladding and Cavity Barriers: Post-Grenfell, there has been heightened scrutiny on the use of cladding materials and the effectiveness of cavity barriers in high-rise buildings. This has led to more rigorous testing and certification processes for these components.
Revision of Standards and Regulations: In response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the UK government and standard-setting bodies have been reviewing and updating fire safety regulations and standards. This includes a more stringent approach to the installation, inspection, and maintenance of fire cavity barriers.
Awareness and Responsibility: The incident has raised public awareness about fire safety and the importance of compliance with legal standards. It has also emphasised the responsibility of building owners, architects, and contractors to ensure that all aspects of fire safety, including cavity barriers, are given due consideration in the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings.
Ongoing Investigations and Reforms: Investigations into the Grenfell Tower fire continue to influence fire safety policies and practices. Ongoing reforms are expected to further tighten regulations and standards, ensuring higher levels of safety in building construction and refurbishment.
The legal and safety standards surrounding fire cavity barriers in the UK underscore the importance of these components in building safety. The lessons learned from the Grenfell Tower incident continue to shape and strengthen these standards, ensuring that fire safety remains a top priority in the construction and maintenance of buildings.

Fire Barrier Maintenance and Inspection

Regular maintenance and inspection of fire cavity barriers are critical for ensuring their continued effectiveness in preventing the spread of fire and smoke in buildings. For building owners and managers, understanding and adhering to maintenance guidelines is key to upholding fire safety standards and protecting occupants.

The Importance of Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance of fire cavity barriers are crucial for continuous fire protection in buildings. Over time, buildings age, undergo renovations, and face environmental changes, which can affect these barriers. Regular inspections ensure barriers remain intact and functional.

Inspections can reveal issues like gaps, deterioration, or damage. Addressing these promptly is vital to maintain barrier effectiveness during a fire. Early detection allows for timely repairs or replacements.

Following a regular maintenance schedule is often a regulatory requirement. Compliance ensures the safety of occupants and avoids legal repercussions. Regular inspections and maintenance uphold safety standards and regulatory compliance, safeguarding building occupants.

Guidelines for Building Owners

Develop a Maintenance Schedule: Establish a regular schedule for inspecting fire cavity barriers. The frequency of inspections should be based on factors like the age of the building, the type of barriers installed, and the building’s usage.
Professional Inspections: Engage qualified professionals to conduct thorough inspections of the fire cavity barriers. These experts can assess the condition of the barriers and recommend appropriate actions.
Document Inspections and Actions: Maintain detailed records of all inspections, findings, and any remedial actions taken. This documentation is crucial for regulatory compliance and can be valuable in case of a fire incident.
Address Issues Promptly: Any identified issues with the fire cavity barriers should be addressed immediately. Delaying repairs or replacements can significantly compromise the safety of the building.
Educate and Train Maintenance Staff: Ensure that maintenance staff are educated about the importance of fire cavity barriers and trained to identify signs of wear or damage during routine building checks.
Stay Informed About Regulation Changes: Keep abreast of any changes in fire safety regulations that may affect the maintenance requirements of fire cavity barriers.
Consider Barriers During Renovations: If the building undergoes renovations or structural changes, reassess the fire cavity barriers to ensure they still provide adequate protection and meet current standards.
By prioritising the regular maintenance and inspection of fire cavity barriers, building owners can play a crucial role in enhancing the overall fire safety of their properties. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring the barriers perform as intended, providing a critical line of defence in the event of a fire.

Our Accreditations

Here at Midsummer Fire Protection, we believe quality should always come first, that’s why we are BMTRADA accredited. We undergo several reviews per year to ensure our standards are maintained.
About Midsummer Fire Protection

Why Choose Midsummer Fire Protection?

We are based in Kettering, Northamptonshire, in our purpose-built office located on the Kettering Venture Park. 

Midsummer Fire Protection LTD are a well-established Passive Fire protection company.

We believe that Fire Protection should always come first, there is nothing more important than the protection of those within the building and the actual building itself. All of our installations are completed following manufacturers' specifications and we've completed projects in the following:
Schools, Universities & Science Centres
Housing Developments & Associations
Hospitals
Here at Midsummer Fire Protection, we believe maintaining high levels of customer service and building strong relationships with our clients is of the upmost importance.

We strive to be your go-to Fire Protection company and exceed your expectations at all times.
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Friendly & Professional
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Friendly & Professional
The service we provide will always be the right one, our teams are always on hand to provide you with expert advice whilst maintaining the highest level of customer service possible. 

We believe in looking after every one of our clients and that’s why we have dedicated members of our team to help you wherever we can. 

Please feel free to contact our office and receive the service you deserve from start to finish.
Accurate & Friendly Advice
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Accurate & Friendly Advice
Midsummer Fire Protection work side by side with our manufactures, we ensure all our installations are installed as per manufactures specification. 

All of our employees are fully trained and are on hand to provide any information you may require. 

If you unsure of a situation we would be more than happy to help. You are our priority and can assure you that we will find the right solution for you.
No Obligation Quotation
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No Obligation Quotation
You are under no obligation to use us at any time, there is no need to use our services just because you made contact.

Midsummer are firm believers of keeping are clients happy and ensuring they receive the right service for them. 

Although we may do everything we can to ensure the right solution and service has been provided every time, we understand you may like a second opinion.
Effective Solutions
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EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS
We work closely with of our manufacturers to ensure all solutions provided and correct and effective. 

All installations provided by ourselves are installed under very strict guidelines and if needed, our manufacturers can also attend site to keep you reassured throughout all projects.

Midsummer Fire Protection is always ready to help

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