SASCO, distinguished pioneer in Aluminium, glass, curtain wall systems, and fire rated glazing systems in Qatar, recently partnered with Vetrotech Saint-Gobain, the global leader in fire-resistant glass, to organise a groundbreaking training and live demonstration event. This initiative aimed to enhance the technical knowledge and expertise of SASCO’s team in the critical domain of fire safety.
The comprehensive training program, skillfully delivered by Surya Prakash, Technical Manager of Vetrotech Saint-Gobain, catered to SASCO's technical, sales, and senior management professionals. The event garnered significant interest from industry leaders and stakeholders as it focused on key topics of paramount importance in fire safety.
During the training sessions, attendees had the privilege to learn about and discuss several essential aspects of fire-resistant glass. There was an in-depth exploration of common misconceptions surrounding the fire resistance of different types of glass followed by a complete overview of standards and classifications of fire-resistant glazing systems, such as, E category glass provides fire, smoke, and hot gas resistance but does not impede radiant heat while EW category glass offers radiant heat transfer limitation to below 15 KW/m2 at a 1-meter distance, and EI category glass ensures full insulation for the required time duration. Such insights into the appropriate classification of glass for different fire compartmentalization allows for precise glass selection based on meticulous risk assessment.
Full system certification, which is an indispensable requisite of passive fire compartmentalisation was discussed in detail. Aligned with international best practices, the training emphasized on the importance of proposing fire-rated glazing systems as complete and integrated solutions, based on thorough test evidence. This approach surpasses testing individual components and ensures the highest level of safety while mitigating associated risks. The training ended with an illuminating showcase highlighting the distinctions between annealed glass, E category glass, and EW category glass. The demonstration also highlighted the adverse effects of sprinkler water on non-fire-resistant glass, and E category glass, which shattered under the thermal stress caused by the sudden introduction of cold water
Renowned for its unwavering commitment to life safety, SASCO recognizes the significance of providing its teams with in-depth training on fire safety glazing and adhering to the rules set forth by Qatar Civil Defense. SASCO follows a rigorous certification process that fully complies with QCD's stringent norms, incorporating best-in-class international practices.
Paul George, CEO of SASCO, expressed his confidence in SASCO's expertise and the company's strong track record of executing successful fire-resistant glazed projects across Qatar. He emphasized that SASCO consistently meets the required QCD norms, ensuring the delivery of the safest classification of products, whether EW or EI.
As a testament to Qatar's diligence to fire safety, Eisenhower, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain India – Solutions business, who was present during the training session commended the nation's dedication to fire safety: He stated, "Qatar's exemplary fire safety standards, showcased during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, have set a global benchmark. The commitment displayed by companies like SASCO in complying without compromise to the requirements of fire & life safety is commendable."