MSP wants Grenfell sprinkler law

A new law making the installation of sprinkler systems compulsory in all new social housing across Scotland is being proposed by Labour in the wake of the Grenfell Tower disaster.

MSP David Stewart is planning to bring forward a Member’s Bill placing a duty on local councils and social landlords to include the systems in all new-build properties.

A public consultation on the plans will be launched today running until 16 April. Mr Stewart will also be seeking views on how sprinklers could be retrofitted into existing buildings.

The systems have proved to be highly effective at preventing the spread of fire in high-rise blocks. In Scotland, no multiple deaths have been recorded in buildings with working sprinklers.

“Fire safety is a significant issue in Scotland and house fires are more prevalent in areas of socio-economic dep- rivation,” Mr Stewart said. “That is why I am making this common sense proposal to ensure all new social housing has a sprinkler system installed. This simple change in law is a practical step that will save lives.

“Councils in Angus, Fife and Dundee already install sprinklers into their new developments as standard and I want to see this approach extended all over Scotland.”

The plans were welcomed by the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association.