Timber is a cornerstone of Norwegian architecture, blending sustainability, aesthetics, and tradition. However, its use in multi-occupancy buildings raises important questions about fire safety. Norway addresses these challenges through a combination of advanced fire safety technologies, stringent regulations, and innovative building techniques.

Why Use Timber in Multi-Occupancy Buildings?

Timber is not only abundant and sustainable but also offers excellent insulation and a low-carbon footprint. Modern engineered timber, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), has enhanced durability and fire resistance, making it viable for large residential buildings.

Fire Regulations: Mitigating Risks

Norwegian building regulations, specifically TEK17, ensure that fire safety is a top priority in multi-occupancy buildings. Key measures include:

• Fire Compartments: Apartments and floors are designed as separate fire-resistant units, containing fires for up to 60 minutes.
• Advanced Detection Systems: Smoke alarms and centralized fire alarms provide early warnings.
• Sprinklers and Fire Retardants: Mandatory in taller buildings, these systems slow fire spread, giving residents time to evacuate.
• Escape Routes: Buildings must have two independent escape routes with emergency lighting and clear markings.

The Role of Technology

Modern timber constructions use fire-resistant treatments and engineered timber products that char on the surface, slowing combustion. Combined with rigorous design strategies, these innovations ensure that timber buildings meet the same fire safety standards as traditional materials like concrete and steel.

Balancing Tradition and Safety

Norway’s approach demonstrates how sustainability and safety can coexist. By combining timber’s environmental benefits with robust fire safety measures, the country continues to innovate in building practices while safeguarding its residents.

Why Timber Faces Restrictions in the UK

Timber, especially modern engineered variants such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), offers benefits like low carbon emissions, excellent insulation, and environmental sustainability. However, concerns surrounding fire safety in high-rise and multi-occupancy buildings have led the UK to impose strict regulations on its use in these contexts.

It is important to note that, although timber is engineered for enhanced fire resistance, it is inherently flammable. It is important to select materials that are fire resistant in high-density residential buildings.

Fire incidents in high-profile timber buildings have damaged public confidence, leading policymakers to recommend non-combustible buildings.

UK Fire Regulations on Building Materials

As a result of the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, the UK has strict regulations governing fire safety in multi-occupancy buildings. It is prohibited to use combustible materials in external walls of buildings over 18 metres tall.

Almost all materials used in external cladding must be non-combustible, as defined by the European classification system, Class A1 or A2.

An assessment of fire safety should include fire prevention strategies that limit the spread of fire on both the inside and outside of the building.

Automatic sprinkler systems are required in all new residential buildings above 11 metres.