Insurers and regulations
Using non-combustible Rockwool insulation can give insurers peace of mind and help to meet their recommendations. For example, Zurich Municipal who is recognized as the leading insurer of UK schools published their Schools and Academy Design guide which specifically recommends the use of noncombustible materials such as stone wool for external insulated wall systems (see section 5.2.12).
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order introduced in October 2006 also seeks to reduce risk by focusing on controlling and communicating fire hazards in buildings. This is recognised by the DCSF who state that “Following changes to fire safety legislation introduced through the Regulatory Reform Fire Order in October 2006, designers are now required to communicate all aspects of the design that may affect the eventual fire risk assessment, including the use of combustible products used in the construction.” 1 Therefore specifying non-combustible Rockwool insulation throughout the school may help to reduce the hazards you need to identify and communicate in your fire risk assessment.
1Excerpt from Department for Children, Schools and Families guidance document “Roof Coverings in Schools” (Pg 27)
