Facility launch marks expansion in fire resistance testing

Warringtonfire, part of Element Materials Technology, has opened a new fire resistance testing facility at Birchwood Park, Warrington.

Over 150 guests attended the opening event, including customers, academics, trade bodies, media representatives, and local dignitaries.

The event featured a tour of the facility and discussions led by experts in fire resistance and construction safety.

Speakers included Element’s CEO Jo Wetz, Warringtonfire’s technical specialists, and keynote speaker Paul Morrell OBE, former Chief Construction Adviser to the UK government.

Industry leaders highlight need for improved collaboration

During the event, Warringtonfire’s Technical Policy Manager, Peter Barker, and Paul Morrell addressed the importance of industry-wide collaboration.

They called for a stronger understanding of due diligence in construction and emphasised the need to prioritise safety in decision-making.

The event also included a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by the Deputy Mayor of Warrington, Councillor Mo Hussain.

Investment in fire testing infrastructure

The new fire resistance laboratory represents a $30 million (£24 million) investment and covers 101,000 sqft.

It is one of the largest fire resistance testing facilities in Europe and began operations on 2 January 2025.

The facility is equipped with five fire resistance testing furnaces, with plans to expand to seven.

According to Jason Dodds, VP of Built Environment at Element Materials Technology: “The launch of this state-of-the-art fire resistance laboratory is a significant investment for our company and a major step forward for the industry as a whole.”

Sustainability and future plans

The facility incorporates several sustainability measures to minimise environmental impact.

It features advanced smoke abatement systems, energy-efficient power supply units, and infrastructure that can accommodate green gas and hydrogen mixes once they become available.

The site also uses low-energy lighting and heating systems to reduce overall energy consumption.

Dodds stated that the expansion aligns with anticipated growth in the construction sector and increasing regulatory demands: “With growth in the construction industry forecasted over the next two years by the Construction Products Association, coupled with an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, this new facility helps us meet the needs of our customers.”

Warringtonfire opens new fire resistance testing facility in the UK: Summary

Warringtonfire has opened a new fire resistance testing facility at Birchwood Park, Warrington.

The laboratory spans 101,000 sqft and represents a $30 million (£24 million) investment.

It is one of the largest fire testing sites in Europe and became operational on 2 January 2025.

The opening event was attended by over 150 guests, including industry professionals and local dignitaries.

Speakers discussed fire safety challenges and called for improved industry collaboration.

The facility houses five fire resistance testing furnaces, with plans to add two more.

Sustainability measures include smoke abatement systems, energy-efficient power units, and infrastructure for future green gas use.

Warringtonfire aims to support the industry in meeting regulatory requirements and advancing fire resistance testing capabilities.