Safe2Torch
What is Safe2Torch?
Safe2Torch is an NFRC campaign developed in partnership with contractor and manufacturer members of the NFRC, seeks to significantly reduce the risk of roof fires when using gas torches, either to dry out roofs or when used to install torch-on membranes.
What are the main points?
Those who create risks have a responsibility to manage those risks – placing the ownership of potential fire risks in the right place is the main message of Safe2Torch. Therefore, it is essential to make sure all fire risks are identified at the survey stage and factored in to the specification before it is written. This means that where any fire risk has been identified, or, just as importantly, where it cannot be ruled out, then the relevant parts of that specification must default to torch-free solutions. If, subsequently, it can be demonstrated that an area is safe (e.g. when uncovering an area on a refurbishment project) then the specification can, if agreed between all parties, revert to torch application.
The Safe2Torch campaign is designed to support specification writers to comply with the Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015, and ties in with the HSE’s led ‘Helping Great Britain Work Well’ strategy which promotes a safer and healthier working environment.
Put simply, Safe2Torch is a positive message which puts safety first at the design stage.
Why was it necessary?
The Safe2Torch campaign will directly affect at least 50% of all the flat roofs installed in the UK.
Roof fires caused by gas torches, no matter how minor, pose a serious threat to life, property, the image of the industry and possibly even the long-term future of torch-on as an accepted method of covering a roof. NFRC believe that by working together, fires of this nature can be prevented and it is for this reason, that we have now launched our Safe2Torch campaign.
The Safe2Torch campaign will promote the positive side of the industry, where safe specifications and safe working practices are second nature. It will give clients assurance that if they engage with a Safe2Torch Contractor and/or Manufacturer, their roof works will have been planned and installed within the requirements of the Safe2Torch guidance.
How to pledge support for Safe2Torch?
Any organisation can pledge support for the Safe2Torch campaign. Pledging support means that the organisation/ individual has read and understood the guidance, is committed to promoting and implementing the campaign throughout their organisation. To pledge simply complete the form to the right.
Download the free Safe2Torch Guidance:
For further information contact safe2torch@nfrc.co.uk.
When you complete the pledge you can request a free campaign kit which includes a certificate which you can then proudly display at your place of work. If you have already pledged and forgot to request it, simply contact the campaign team on the email above.
