What is ‘the golden thread’ and how can manufacturers support the industry?

Since the tragedy of Grenfell and the subsequent tightening of regulations in the fire industry, there are some important changes ahead for all those involved in the fire protection industry. The Government has announced that new fire safety guidance comes into force on 1 October 2023. This will be phase 3 of amendments to the Home Office’s fire safety reform programme.

The aim of this article is to look a little more closely at ‘the golden thread’ which forms part of this guidance, and what this will mean for contractors and manufacturers of fire safety products.

What is ‘the golden thread’?

One of the most prominent changes due to be implemented later this year is the ‘golden thread’ for construction, which will dramatically change how buildings are constructed.

A key outcome from Dame Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, the golden thread describes a framework for organising building information.

The golden thread is a term used to describe the concept of maintaining a clear and consistent record of the design, construction, and maintenance of a building’s fire protection features. This includes everything from the materials used in the building’s construction to the placement and maintenance of fire doors, fire-resistant walls and floors, and other passive fire protection measures.

The golden thread is important because it ensures that all parties involved in the building’s design, construction, and maintenance have a clear understanding of the fire protection measures in place and their intended purpose. This helps to ensure that the building is built and maintained in a way that minimizes the risk of fire and maximizes the safety of those inside.

In summary, operating a golden thread for fire safety will help deliver:

• Enhanced accountability
• Improved design and construction
• Effective maintenance and upgrades
• Better fire risk management

What to look for from a manufacturer

To help those accountable deliver this ‘golden thread’ of information, they will need to work with manufacturers who can support them and also demonstrate their competence in the sector.

What does competence mean for manufacturers of firestops and what should contractors look for when choosing a fire stopping manufacturer to work with?

Competence in manufacturing can encompass a whole range of activities from process optimization and quality management to delivering technical support and collaboration alongside independently tested and approved products that comply to regulations.

Manufacturers can support contractors in delivering the golden thread for fire safety in construction through the following ways:

• Product information and documentation: Manufacturers should provide comprehensive and accurate product information, including specifications, performance data, installation instructions, and maintenance guidelines. This information should be easily accessible and clearly communicate the product’s fire safety attributes. Ideally this should be via independent third party tests and approvals such as ETAs. ETAs provide comprehensive information regarding a product’s performance and ensures ongoing performance through ongoing assessments.
• Training and education: Manufacturers can support contractors by providing training and educational resources on the proper installation, use, and maintenance of their fire safety products. This helps ensure that contractors have the necessary knowledge to implement fire safety measures correctly.
• Technical support: Manufacturers should offer technical support to contractors, such as guidance on product selection, integration, and compliance with relevant standards and regulations. They can provide assistance in interpreting the product information and resolving any queries or issues that arise during the construction process.
• Documentation and traceability: Manufacturers should maintain accurate records and documentation related to their products, including test reports, certifications, and technical data. This documentation helps contractors establish and maintain the golden thread by providing essential information about the products used in the building.

Got any questions?

Get in touch with our Technical Team if you have any questions about how Walraven can support you. Alternatively, visit our fire stopping page to find out more.