High-Rise Tower Blocks - Ashton Pioneer Homes
Fire Stopping
Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester
Ashton Pioneer Homes, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing quality housing, engaged TF Jones to address fire risk assessment (FRA) actions for their high-rise tower blocks in Ashton-under-Lyne.
The objective was to support a ‘stay put’ fire evacuation strategy by installing fire-stopping measures to ensure effective compartmentation.
This work included creating vertical lines of protection (wall-to-wall) and horizontal lines (floor-to-floor) to contain the spread of fire and smoke from communal areas to individual flats.
“We are delighted with Ashton Pioneer Homes’ feedback following an audit by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service of four high-rise tower blocks, it demonstrated our commitment to ensuring the safety of these buildings.”
Mark Waring
Fire Protection Manager
Project Approach
Surveying and Planning
The project began with a thorough survey of the properties, carefully reviewing the FRA to ensure all required actions were addressed. Any discrepancies between the FRA findings and the actual condition of the building were identified, and recommendations for additional work were made.
Resident Communication
Although the fire stopping elements of this project focused on communal spaces, TF Jones prioritises resident engagement. Letters and noticeboard notices were distributed to introduce the team, explain the planned work, and reassure residents about the safety upgrades being undertaken.
Implementation and Quality Assurance
The fire-stopping work was carried out by our expert team, ensuring compartmentation was installed to the highest standards. FIRAS-certified Supervisors conducted destructive testing to verify the quality of the work before it was signed off as complete, maintaining TF Jones’ reputation for excellence.
Successful Outcomes
The meticulous approach taken by TF Jones’ Fire Stopping Team ensured all FRA actions were successfully addressed. The quality of the work received commendations from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), who audited four of the high-rise blocks completed and provided very positive feedback.
Key Takeaway
Rob Bywater, Director of Assets at Ashton Pioneer Homes, regularly shared feedback from GMFRS, praising the high standard of work completed by TF Jones.