The Fire Sector Confederation’s Sports Ground Special Interest (Fire Safety) Network is up and running after nearly forty stakeholders from sports venues across the country took part in its recent inaugural meeting.
The group is chaired by Paul Brunt, Fire Safety Manager at Manchester United Football Club, and aims to bring together a range of stakeholders, including The Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA), fire safety officers, fire equipment suppliers, fire safety expertise service providers, sports ground authorities and local authorities to share knowledge and expertise that will prevent fires and enhance safety at sports grounds.
The new initiative follows several months of planning by Fire Sector Confederation Executive Director, Steve McGuirk with Paul Brunt and Tim Burgin of the SGSA.
Steve McGuirk said: “We are delighted that this special interest network is now up and running, providing a unique platform for professionals with an interest in sports ground safety to come together to focus on developing guidance, influencing standards and improving communication to prevent fires in sports venues. The work of our special interest networks drives the agenda for the National Fire Safety Strategy Board and the Fire Congress helping to inform and shape policy.”
Paul Brunt added: “This is an important milestone in our drive to improving fire safety across all sports grounds in the UK and I am honoured to be the inaugural chair. The initial response has been incredibly positive with enthusiastic participation from football, rugby and cricket clubs across the country. It is a unique platform to share best practice and tackle challenges collaboratively so that we ultimately inform the best possible safety standards.”
Tim Burgin commented: “The formation of this group of stakeholders will play a significant role in the review of fire safety in sports grounds prompted by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. It brings together experts from across the country whose collaboration will be potentially significant in shaping the new Green Guide.”
Participation in the group includes representation to date from a wide range of stakeholders including representatives from Premier and EFL league football grounds, rugby union and rugby league grounds, horseracing grounds, cricket stadia, industry representatives and government advisors on fire safety.
The group will continue to meet on a regular basis and any potential stakeholders with an interest in participating should email: [email protected]