The Key to Firefighting: Innovation and Regulation
Last November, the Madrid Fire Day, organised by TECNIFUEGO, the Spanish Association of Fire Protection Companies, brought together experts who emphasised the necessity of new regulations and technical solutions to challenges such as fires in photovoltaic installations, lithium-ion batteries and high-rise buildings. The three panel discussions, which attracted a remarkable level of attendance, addressed fire safety and sustainability (FSS) from specific perspectives.
The event commenced with an opening address by Diego Fernández of the Engineering Institute of Spain. This was followed by a presentation by Adrián Gómez, president of TECNIFUEGO, who advocated legislative measures such as mandatory detectors in homes and materials to reduce the spread of fires. Jaime Martínez, representing the Community of Madrid, emphasised the value of research and the contribution of companies and professionals in developing cutting-edge solutions.
Table 1: Solar Power and FSS Facilities
Carlos Chicharro emphasised the importance of properly assessing the growth of these facilities and the associated risks. Experts such as Regina Utrilla and Manuel Ferrer concurred that the absence of precise regulations impedes the actions of firefighters and the operations of insurance providers. It is vital to ensure that proper signage is in place, that professional installation is carried out and that a pre-assessment is conducted to prevent disasters.
Beatriz Martinez of Allianz highlighted the significant risks facing the insurance sector due to the lack of regulatory oversight. He emphasised the necessity for transparent regulations governing design and prevention requirements.
Table 2: Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Antonio Tortosa addressed the issue of fires caused by faulty or mishandled batteries in electric vehicles, household devices, and their storage. The fires are proving difficult to extinguish due to the emission of toxic gases and the resistance to thermal control.
Jon Michelena presented European developments, such as the use of water mist systems, which offer a temporary solution while battery technology improves. Lluis Marín highlighted the critical role of detectors in homes in preventing incidents, particularly in Europe, where Spain is behind in terms of regulatory compliance.
Table 3: High-Rise Buildings
Albert Grau highlighted the potential risks of fire on façades and the need for more robust regulation in the Spanish Technical Building Code (CTE, standing for Código Técnico de Edificación). He put forward a proposal to use non-combustible materials and to reinforce active and passive protection measures during the renovation of the building.
Rafael Sarasola emphasised the difficulties of integrating prefabricated systems with inadequate regulatory frameworks. Santos Bendicho highlighted the risks associated with smoke and proposed the implementation of safety systems to ensure the security of escape routes. María Blanca García Sanz, representing the Architects' Association, proposed the integration of FSS in project and renovation initiatives.
José María Pérez Revenga emphasised the necessity for expert committees to establish suitable standards, particularly in relation to older buildings. He also highlighted the importance of fireproofing materials and smoke control measures to ensure safe evacuation procedures.
Madrid Fire Day is sponsored by the following companies: Pefipresa, Viking, Fire Piping, Honeywell, Sodeca, Bosch, Dinak, Ebara, Securitas, Detnov, Rockwool, UNE and AENOR.