Fire, Security and Safety

Aluminium decking experts AliDeck are looking to share their knowledge with the launch of a suite of learning materials for prospective clients to find out all they need to know about their options for non-combustible decking.

Launched in 2019 as a standalone brand, AliDeck are part of the Milwood Group of aluminium extrusion specialist companies. Drawing on their decades of experience in manufacturing aluminium outdoor structures, the Milwood Group developed and launched a stylish aluminium decking board in 2015.

On the 2nd April, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP announced ambitious steps, initiated by the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire, to further reform the building safety system, with the aim of ensuring that residents are safe in their homes.
Firstly, MHCLG have published their response to the Building a Safer Future Consultation which sets out plans to reform building safety. This includes creating a new, more stringent, national Building Safety Regulator, currently being devised by the Health and Safety Executive, who will be responsible for implementing, enforcing and overseeing safety in all multi-occupied residential buildings over 18m (or 6 storeys). Importantly, the Building Safety Bill will also provide for the ability to amend the scope in the future, if deemed justified.

Access control and door entry is a huge responsibility, and challenge, for local authorities and housing associations UK wide.

Technology developments have enabled better entry systems that are far more secure yet also more convenient and easier to manage. Modern intercom and access control systems, remote management and communication is something that offers local authorities and housing associations features that enable them to reduce costs and cut their carbon footprints by managing multiple sites from one place.

With the age of residents at Hanover Lodge, access was becoming problematic due to the heavy self-closing fire doors. Fireco products were recommended and Freedor SmartSound was found to be the best-suited product. 

We are pleased to announce that we have been working with fire door manufacturers in order to gain Primary Test Certification on a range of Fireco products.

Fire safety has been at the forefront of discussion in social housing circles, with much of the focus being on the compartmentation of a building.

Following the tragic events at Grenfell Tower, the subsequent Hackitt Review into Building Regulations and the ongoing Public Inquiry, Colt is proud to establish their viewpoint on Compliance and Competence.