BAFSA celebrates half a century of progress in fire safety

BAFSA, the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association, celebrated its 50th anniversary with a distinguished gathering at the House of Lords last week.

The Attlee Room hosted a special lunch, commemorating five decades of dedication to the sprinkler industry.

Among the attendees were 50 key stakeholders from the fire safety sector, including notable figures such as Lord David Goddard, Sir Ken Knight, Bob Blackman MP, and Ann Jones OBE.

A milestone event featuring industry leaders

The celebration was highlighted by the debut of a 50th-anniversary video, narrated by renowned broadcaster and fire safety advocate, Nick Ross CBE.

The video paid tribute to BAFSA’s significant achievements and the advancements in sprinkler legislation achieved over the past 50 years.

Ali Perry, BAFSA’s Chief Executive, emphasised the collaborative efforts behind the association’s successes in his welcome speech: “Nothing BAFSA has achieved in the past 50 years has been done in isolation.

“It has been delivered through real partnership because of the passion, drive and determination of the people in this room.”

Inaugural John McCann award presented

The event also featured the presentation of the inaugural John McCann award for a notable contribution to the sprinkler industry.

The award was given to Dr Simon Bird and is sponsored by Vipond Fire Protection in memory of its former Managing Director, John McCann, who passed away in 2022.

Perry added: “At the time of his passing, John was the chair of BAFSA, a leading advocate for all things sprinklers and was instrumental in driving the wider adoption of fire sprinklers and change within our industry.

“It is fitting in memory of John that we can make the first presentation of this award here at the House of Lords for BAFSA’s 50th.”

Dr Simon Bird expressed his gratitude upon receiving the award: “I am very grateful to BAFSA for this award, which was an unexpected honour.

“Having had the privilege of knowing John and working with him over the years, made it all the more special. I wish the industry continued success.”

IFSJ Comment

The 50th-anniversary celebration of BAFSA at the House of Lords underscores the enduring commitment and collaborative spirit that have driven the sprinkler industry’s progress over the last half-century.

As BAFSA looks forward to continuing its advocacy and support for the sprinkler industry, the legacy of its past achievements and the promise of future advancements exemplify the association’s pivotal role in enhancing fire safety standards.