Why Were UK Fire Brigades Unprepared for High Tower Blazes?
The tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in the UK raised many questions about the preparedness of the fire service to handle high-rise emergencies. Despite initial criticisms, it is important to understand the challenges that go beyond the fire brigade's capabilities and highlight the role of building design and regulations. This article delves into the technical and practical aspects that impact fire safety in high-rise buildings and the potential for advancements in technologies like skylifts and drones.
Fire Safety Equipment and Dry Riser Systems
The construction industry is well-aware that dry riser systems are essential for high-rise buildings. These systems provide access to high-pressure water on each floor, which is crucial for effective firefighting. However, the design and location of London's narrow streets pose unique challenges. As mentioned, dry riser systems are the most practical solution for such areas, as the inability to drive long ladders through the narrow and non-straight streets limits the use of aerial firefighting equipment. It is imperative that the fire risk assessment for any high-rise building includes the scenario of a non-functional dry riser, as demonstrated at Grenfell Tower. The fire service was only able to pump water to the lower part of the building, which is evident from the limited blackened areas.
Skylift Systems for Emergency Operations
Skylifts capable of rescuing people from every floor are available and should be considered for inclusion in fire service equipment. These systems offer a viable alternative for high-rise building emergencies. For instance, the London fire service had the capability to utilize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to view the upper floors from the outside, which demonstrated the potential for these technologies in disaster response.
Regulatory and Technological Advancements in Firefighting
To improve fire safety in high-rise buildings, there is a need for research and development into specialized firefighting drones. These drones could be equipped with FAROS technology from South Korea, which ensures 'fire-proofing' of payloads. Additionally, the EU's 'Urban Space' air traffic control concept can be developed to manage drone operations in inner cities, providing a regulatory framework that keeps hobbyist drones away from active fire situations. Standard operating procedures must be established, and fire and rescue crews need to undergo specific training for these novel emergency scenarios.
Conclusion
The fire at Grenfell Tower is a wake-up call for all stakeholders involved in high-rise building safety. While the fire brigade's efforts should not be neglected, the focus must shift towards building design and regulations that ensure fire safety. The adoption of dry riser systems, sky rescue lifts, and advanced firefighting drones will significantly enhance the response to high-rise emergencies. By addressing these critical components through comprehensive research, development, and training, the UK can build more resilient and safer high-rise communities.
Keywords: fire brigade equipment, high-rise building, fire safety measures