FIRE ENGINEERING IN THE
BUILT ENVIRONMENt
A Practical, Evidence-Based Approach
Across all services, PYROLEC combines fire engineering expertise with real-world construction knowledge. Where standard guidance or test data does not directly apply, we develop robust, evidence based solutions supported by technical evaluations and, where necessary, testing.
We provide specialist fire engineering support for façade remediation projects, ensuring external wall systems meet current fire safety standards, including the principles of PAS 9980.
Our services include the design and specification of fire barriers within façade systems, including brickwork fire barriers to maintain compartmentation continuity. We work closely with project teams to ensure that fire safety measures are effectively integrated into complex façade assemblies.
A key aspect of our work is undertaking technical evaluations where manufacturers’ tested details do not align with as-built site conditions. This commonly includes:
- Cavity barriers within rainscreen systems interrupted by fixings and support brackets
- Fire stopping interfaces to curtain walling systems
- Bespoke solutions where standard test evidence cannot be directly applied
Our approach ensures that all solutions are technically justified, compliant, and practical to install on site.
FACADE REMEDIATION
We assess and remediate structural fire protection where existing provisions are inadequate or do not account for real building behaviour in fire conditions.
Particular focus is given to situations where compartment walls are fixed to the underside of structural elements. To maintain compliance with Requirement B3(3) of the Building Regulations, consideration of thermal expansion and structural deflection is critical. This often results in reduced critical steel temperatures and the need for carefully designed deflection head details.
Our capabilities include:
- Development of compliant structural fire protection strategies
- Design of deflection head details accommodating thermal movement
- Remediation solutions for steel and timber structures
We have developed and tested solutions for timber frame buildings, including fire stopping to open board joints and junctions.
In addition, we are currently undertaking testing of innovative structural fire protection systems designed for installation within occupied residential buildings. These solutions minimise disruption by avoiding the need for extensive intrusive works such as wall reconstruction or removal of kitchens and bathrooms.
structural REMEDIATION
PYROLEC specialises in resolving complex fire stopping challenges within occupied buildings, delivering solutions that are both compliant and practical.
A common issue involves service penetrations above flat entrance doors, where traditional solutions require access from both sides or the installation of lined letterboxes. We have developed and tested a bespoke solution that allows fire stopping to be installed from the corridor side only—eliminating the need to access individual flats and significantly accelerating remediation programmes.
Our services include:
- Fire stopping design and remediation of service penetrations
- Technical evaluations of service separation distances in live buildings
- Development of tested solutions for constrained or non-standard conditions
We have also undertaken testing to remediate:
- Head-of-wall junctions
- Fire stopping details within timber frame buildings
COMPARTMENTATION REMEDIATION
Alongside our remediation expertise, PYROLEC provides a full suite of traditional fire engineering services to support both new and existing buildings.
We develop clear, compliant fire strategies that integrate seamlessly with the design process, supporting planning, construction, and occupation stages. Our fire risk assessments provide practical, actionable recommendations to manage and reduce fire risk in existing buildings.
We also support Building Regulations compliance, including Higher-Risk Building (HRB) and Gateway applications, guiding clients through the regulatory process with confidence.
Our services include:
- Fire strategy development
- Fire risk assessments
- Building Regulations compliance (including Approved Document B)
- Support for Gateway submissions and regulatory approvals
TRADITIONAL FIRE ENGINEERING
recruitment
PYROLEC are currently recruiting for all levels of Fire Engineers, Facade and Building Engineers who want to work on fire remediation programmes.
