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Three high rises in Worcester fail fire safety standards after reassessment
Three high-rise buildings in Worcester failed to meet fire safety standards after the housing association ordered another assessment following concerns over its former assessor, Tri Fire.
Three high rises in Worcester fail fire safety standards after reassessment #ukhousingThe new fire risk assessment found that problems with cladding and air pockets between the cladding and the outer wall could allow for a slow spread of flames if a fire took hold at Henwick House, Cripplegate House and Severn House on St Clements Close.
Housing association Platform Housing Group, which manages the high rises, recently commissioned the check following concerns raised about Tri Fire. The blocks were built in 1969.
Tri Fire was one of the firms most commonly used by housing associations to carry out external wall assessments of their buildings. The firm is understood to have reviewed systems on thousands of blocks in the sector since 2020.
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But in August last year, Adam Kiziak, director of Tri Fire, was sanctioned by the Institution of Fire Engineers. He was found to have failed to work with professional competence and breached the organisation’s principle of “accuracy and vigour”.
After the recent failures were found, Platform introduced safety measures including a 24/7 on-site fire safety support team, the temporary closing of some part of the building and an update to the buildings’ emergency evacuation plan.
Residents will also now only be allowed to charge their mobility scooters during the day, to further minimise fire risk at night.
Deb Davies, group commander at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We’re continuing to work closely with Platform Housing Group as they respond proactively to recent fire safety findings.
“The additional temporary measures being introduced are precautionary steps that support customer safety.”
A Platform spokesperson said: “All affected residents have been informed through direct communication, face-to-face support and dedicated drop-in sessions on site.”
Elizabeth Froude, the landlord’s chief executive, said: “Safety is and always will be our top priority. That’s why we’ve reassessed these buildings, and are now putting in place measures to keep our residents safe and supported.
“These buildings remain safe to live in, and we’re working hand-in-hand with the Hereford and Worcester Fire Authority to ensure our residents have clear information, practical reassurance and a consistent presence on site.”
Ms Froude announced this week that she has been appointed chief executive of Sage Homes, the biggest for-profit housing provider in England. She will take on the new role in the first quarter of next year.
Mr Kiziak was approached for comment.
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