Pilgrims Hospice Roof Void Compartmentation
Fire-Rated Curtain Installation to Achieve EI30 CompartmentationHealthcare Facility • Live Environment • Passive Fire Protection
Project Overview
This project involved the installation of a fire-rated curtain system within the roof void of a live healthcare facility to achieve compliant compartmentation to true roof height.
The works were designed to provide a certified 30-minute fire resistance rating (EI30) while maintaining safe access for ongoing inspection and maintenance.
Project Details:
Client: Pilgrims Hospice
Project Type: Roof Void Compartmentation
Environment: Live Healthcare Facility
Fire Rating: EI30
Scope: Fire curtain installation to true roof height
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
Achieve full compartmentation to true roof height
Provide EI30 fire resistance
Prevent fire spread through roof voids
Maintain access for maintenance
Work within a live healthcare environment
Ensure full regulatory compliance
Project Background
The existing compartmentation terminated below the roof structure, leaving concealed void spaces above partition lines. These areas presented a risk of undetected fire and smoke spread across multiple compartments.
The objective was to extend compartmentation fully to the underside of the roof structure using a tested fire-rated curtain system, ensuring compliance while maintaining access for future maintenance.
Technical Solution
A flexible fire-resistant curtain barrier system was selected to overcome restricted access conditions within the roof void and the presence of multiple service penetrations.
This solution allowed full-height compartmentation to be achieved while maintaining a lightweight and adaptable installation.
Curtain System Specification:
EI30 fire-rated curtain system
Installed to true roof height
Lightweight construction
Continuous barrier with sealed joints
Installed to tested system requirements
Installation Process
Survey & Design Verification
Detailed inspection of roof void and identification of compartment lines
Support Framework Installation
Steel support framework fixed to structural roof members
Curtain Installation
Fire curtain installed vertically to full roof height
Access Hatch Integration
Fire-rated hatches installed for maintenance access
Compliance & Standards
The installation was carried out in accordance with UK Building Regulations and relevant fire safety standards.
Standards Achieved:
Approved Document B (Volume 2 – Section B3)
BS 476 Parts 20–22
BS EN 13501-2
BS 9999
ASFP guidance
Health, Safety & Quality
All works were completed within a live hospice environment, requiring strict control of noise, dust and site access.
Installations were carried out by trained passive fire protection operatives, with full photographic records, safety procedures and certification provided.
Project Outcomes
Improved fire containment within roof void
Enhanced life safety for patients and staff
Full compliance with fire safety regulations
Long-term maintenance access maintained
Minimal disruption during works
Conclusion
This project successfully delivered a compliant and technically robust fire compartmentation solution within a live healthcare environment.
By extending compartmentation to true roof height and integrating fire-rated access provisions, the installation significantly reduced the risk of concealed fire spread while maintaining long-term building functionality.