Case Study

Restoration of a 1730’s Historic Building – Fire Risk assessment, ignition

October 19, 2004 12:00 am

The proposed restoration project of Christ Church, Spitalfields London required an assessment of ignition and fuel load. The main aspects of concern were arson, naked flame associated with candle use and electrical sockets.

Project

The proposed restoration project of Christ Church, Spitalfields London incorporates the proposed use of timber panelling against the internal perimeter walls on the ground and gallery levels to a height of 2.4m. The proposed panelling has a class 3 rating as opposed to the requirement from the building regulations for a class 1 product. The effect of this decrease is on the rate of surface spread of flame and fire propagation. The requirement is common to all buildings and does not consider the ‘personality’ of each specific building.

Difficulties

The main focus of the project was to restore the Church to its original state. The concern with the adoption of the retardent paint to the oak timber was the resulting finish that exists as opposed to the design intent. Not withstanding this design feature, if it was considered unnecessary – then why undertake the works.

Alternative Solution

The personality related to this Church was investigated and the risks considered. A case specific assessment of ignition and fuel load was assessed. The main aspects of concern were arson, naked flame associated with candle use and electrical sockets. Each were considered and addressed by a combination of management requirements the factor of most concern addressed by unobtrusive and very cost effective solution using concealed fire stopping products.

Benefit

The overall benefit brought to the restoration by LWF was the ability to maintain the design intent by creating an alternative solution that was inobtrusive to the restoration project.