Howler is urging contractors and fire risk professionals to consider the hidden risks of scaffold fires on cladding and insulation projects – especially when buildings remain occupied during works.
Recent high-rise fires on refurbishment projects have drawn attention to the vulnerabilities created when scaffolding wraps around occupied buildings – especially those using timber scaffold boards or with combustible debris from ongoing removal.
In response, the HSE has issued guidance to inspectors, and Howler has released a new white paper outlining the fire protection measures recommended for scaffolding, including alarm points, extinguisher locations, escape routes – and most critically, automatic fire detection using Linear Heat Detection (LHD).
“When you’re working on scaffold wrapped around an occupied building, early detection is critical,” explains Gary Askew, Managing Director at Howler. “A fire can break out at any time, day or night – especially during cladding or insulation removal – and without detection, the results can be catastrophic.”
Howler’s LHD system is designed specifically for this environment. A heat-sensitive cable is run along the scaffold, and when it detects a rise in temperature, it immediately alerts the site team, the building’s fire alarm system, or a 24/7 monitoring centre.
Why it Matters:
- Protects residents through early fire detection
- Reduces fire risk on scaffolded projects
- Demonstrates diligence to insurers and regulators
- Integrates with site and building alarms
- Pinpoints activation locations for rapid response
The system is particularly suited for cladding contractors, façade specialists, and main contractors working on occupied buildings or major developments.
As fire risk on scaffold becomes an increasing area of focus for insurers, developers, and regulatory bodies, proactive steps like LHD can help contractors demonstrate control, compliance, and care.
Download the full white paper: Fire Protection Measures for Scaffolding
Or contact Howler to request a quote or installation survey.
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