Modular Discussion

In September I began writing a web column for fireengineering.com titled "Modular Concerns".  My goal is to generate a discussion among fire service members on the hazards inherent in certain construction techniques used by the prefabricated (modular) construction industry.  The first submission was designed to frame the discussion; modular construction is everywhere, these buildings are nearly impossible to distinguish from traditional stick built construction, they often utilize polyurethane foam structural adhesives to hold the ceilings in place, the glue burns and no one has a handle on the temperatures at which the glue fails.  Large void spaces are common in multi-level construction and factory based inspectors perform code compliance inspections typically assigned to local building officials.

Because the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) does not collect information on the construction methods used in the buildings in which we fight fires, a centralized database of information relative to fires in modular structures does not exist.  By default we must seek this information elsewhere.

I have set up an Internet newsfeed which sends to my email news stories from across the country that mention the words modular and fire.  It isn't the most comprehensive or scientific process of data collection but it's a start.

Since October 15th I have received six links to reports triggered by those key words.  I've shared links to a few below.  Not all of the reports I receive involve the construction techniques that are problematic just as every fire in a modular home does not destroy the entire structure.  But as fire service leaders it is our responsibility to make tactical decisions based on that important blend of experience, training and knowledge.

Understanding the problem is the first step in effecting change.  Keeping abreast of fires in modular structures doesn't solve the problem but it does enhance the discussion.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131106/LOCAL07/131109566/10...

http://www.abc27.com/story/23888600/fire-destroys-landisburg-home

http://www.kansas.com/2013/11/04/3096024/burden-man-dies-in-house-f...

http://wtvbam.com/news/articles/2013/nov/01/halloween-night-fire-de...