Following incidents with combustible cladding in other jurisdictions, the ACT Government undertook an audit of government owned buildings to identify the use of either Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) or Expanded Polystyrene (EPS).
These types of cladding became popular in recent years as they are lightweight, low cost, increase energy efficiency and offer weatherproofing. They also ignite easily, burn rapidly if they catch alight, and melt at relatively low temperatures.
ACP consist of two thin aluminium sheets bonded to a polymer core. It is the core which presents a fire hazard.
EPS is also combustible. It is generally covered by another material like rendered concrete.
It is important to note that the presence of this cladding does not necessarily mean it is a fire risk. It depends on the type of product used, the cladding’s location, how it was installed, and the building’s overall fire safety measures.
The ACT audit was conducted by a team from Environmental Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD). It found some buildings have combustible ACP or EPS.
This includes a number of ACT Public Schools.
Specialist Fire Safety Engineers have since assessed the buildings identified by the audit and determined that all Government-owned buildings (including ACT Public Schools) are safe to occupy.
However, it has been recommended that cladding be removed from some buildings, including a number of our public schools.
The engineers made their decision based on the type of cladding, its location and the ignition risk.
Options include full removal and replacement of cladding, or partial removal. Where the cladding risk is low, the panels can be left in place and managed through up-to-date fire safety measures.
These measures include:
- removing combustible material(s) near cladding.
- informing trades of the location of cladding, and the associated hazards
- ensuring evacuation procedures are current and correct, and engaging with occupants about the procedures and the cladding hazard
- clearing exits and paths of travel of combustible materials and obstructions
- inspection, regular testing and maintenance of all fire safety systems
- ensuring that ACT Fire and Rescue is aware of the presence of such cladding
Works on our ACT public schools are ongoing and are expected to be complete by mid-2022.
The ACT Government’s Cladding Rectification Program has further information.
The National Construction Code describes compliant use of cladding in its Fire performance of external walls and cladding Advisory Note 2020.2.3