In-construction tests show rapid smoke spread across dwellings

The paper discusses further proof for the use of diagnostic in-construction testing (iCT) developed by the lead author at Cardiff Metropolitan University as a framework of test methodologies for investigating incorrect installation of, missing, inappropriate or defective components within and connected to the building envelope and the fabric of new dwellings in the UK. Without rectification, these defects can affect thermal performance and thus energy efficiency and lead to increased carbon emissions than specified at the design stage. Use of iCT tests in 2014 and 2015 in collaboration with Sustainable Construction Monitoring and Research has identified a potentially far greater problem than reduced thermal performance, which may lead to complete building failure and occupant injury or death. The paper will discuss findings from three case study construction sites where during a multimethod iCT test approach, smoke spread occurred between dwellings and into means of escape in minutes, which should not before 30 min or 1 h.