News

ICB Safe2Torch

ICB Waterproofing Ltd are proud to support and be a registered member of the NFRC #Safe2Torch campaign.

​The NFRC campaign was launched on 3rd July 2017, aiming to reduce the risk of roof fires when using gas torches to install torch-on membranes on roofs. 

According to the NFRC, around 50% of all flat roofs in the UK are laid down using hot works methods, for example, naked flames, sparks and hot materials. In recent times, a number of flat roof fires have been linked to improper use of naked flames or other methods of ‘hot works’. For this reason, the Safe2Torch campaign seeks to overcome these issues by implementing a process that removes potential risks and therefore changes the public's perception of the industry for the better, where safety comes as second nature.

To mitigate the potential fire risk, they must be identified at the survey stage before a specification is written. If such a risk has been identified, then a particular part of the specification must include torch-free as the default solution. If areas are regarded to be safe, and if all parties agree to the alteration, the specification can revert to a torch application. 

As the Head of Technical Services at NFRC, Kevin Taylor reiterated the risks that are associated with a roof fire: “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.”

The campaign consists of Safe2Torch Guidance and a Safe2Torch Checklist issued by NFRC which must be met before work is started. NFRC is hopeful that manufacturers and contractors will show support for the Safe2Torch campaign by promoting and implementing the guidance throughout their organisation.

ICB are committed to ensuring the safety of every project we are directly or indirectly involved with.

Safe2Torch Guidance documents

• Safe2Torch Guidance
• Safe2Torch Checklist
• Safe2Torch Safe System of Works for Gas Torches
• Safe2Torch Visual Checklist  

For more information please visit Safe2Torch.