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Fire safety in construction

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In construction, the security fire safety is a paramount aspect that cannot be overlooked. Incidents such as the recent one in Valencia, which unfortunately claimed human lives, urge us to reflect on the importance of complying with the strictest fire safety standards. fire protection in buildings. In addition, it is essential to understand the regulations in force and how they influence the safety of our structures.

Fire regulations and standards

In December 2019, the Royal Decree 732/2019which amends the Technical Building Code (CTE). This legislation, in force since June 2020, establishes specific requirements for fire protection of building facades new and retrofitting interventions. It is crucial to understand the changes introduced and their impact on building safety.

The UNE EN 13501-1 standard provides a detailed classification of materials according to their fire performance.

FIRE SAFETY
Classification of materials against fire - UNE EN 13501-1

This classification helps to determine the suitability of materials for use in buildings. In addition, it considers the production of smoke and the formation of flaming droplets or particles, factors that can influence the spread of fire and the safety of people.

Fire requirements for facades

Royal Decree 732/2019 states requirements specific to the reaction-to-fire class of the façade construction systems and ventilated cavity insulation systems. For example, it is required that the SATE façade construction systems and the insulation in ventilated chambers are at least class B-s3,d0 up to a minimum height of 3.5 metres for façades with a height of less than 18 metres and an accessible lower start.

Quality Control and Documentation

To ensure compliance with regulations and building safety, it is essential to carry out a rigorous quality control during the execution of the work. The site management must ensure that the materials and systems used comply with the regulations established. In addition, it should adequately document compliance with reaction to fire standards according to UNE EN 13501-1.

Recommendations for a Secure Future

In the light of the tragic events, it is essential to take proactive measures to improving safety in buildings. In addition to complying with the regulations in force, certain actions must be implemented, such as the substitution of combustible materials and the improvement of the sectorisation of the façades, to prevent future incidents.

Fire safety is fundamental in the design and construction of buildings. By understanding the standards and regulations in force, together with an adequate quality control during the execution of the work, we can guarantee the safety of people and protect our structures against possible risks. At PBM EngineeringWe are committed to meeting the highest safety standards in every project, thus contributing to a safer future for all.

Ready to improve the security of your projects?

At PBM Ingeniería we help you to comply with fire protection regulations and ensure the safety of your buildings. Call us at for more information about our services and how we can work together.

Find out about our skills in Engineer Malaga - Miguel Pulido Bendavid - Chartered Engineer

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