The Smoke Control Association (SCA) has announced that all of its members have signed up to stringent new membership requirements designed to maintain the highest industry standards.

Key amongst the updated membership requirements is the stipulation that all products installed as part of life safety smoke ventilation systems should be independently tested and certified to the EN12101 series of standards and CE marked.

The new framework also includes a requirement that members who install smoke control systems must apply for and receive SDI 19 Certification Scheme accreditation providing a guarantee that they have the necessary skill and experience in fire strategy verification, system design, installation and commissioning in accordance with industry standards and guidelines.

As well as adapting its membership criteria, the SCA has introduced a new formal complaints procedure in order to effectively handle any concerns or allegations that standards have fallen below expected levels or an organisation has failed to adhere to the SCA code of conduct.

In the wake of the Grenfell tragedy and the subsequent review of building regulations and fire safety standards, the SCA has taken great strides in addressing many of the challenges laid out in Dame Judith Hackitt’s report, demonstrating the leadership needed to drive a shift in culture. Dame Judith recently warned that the current economic downturn could be used as an excuse for further poor practice and delay but the SCA will continue to do everything it can to raise standards and build on the progress that has already been made.

David Mowatt, Chairman of the SCA, comments, “The SCA has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that both existing and prospective new members appreciate the importance of adhering to the highest possible standards when installing, inspecting and maintaining smoke control equipment and systems. In complying with the new requirements, the SCA membership has clearly demonstrated a commitment to best practice and can be relied upon to provide expert advice and guidance to consultants, specifiers and building operators.”