In the rapidly evolving world of construction, wood is making a comeback, and with it, a pressing need to update fire safety regulations. Victor S. Gorshkov, a Candidate of Technical Sciences and Chief of Sector, has taken a deep dive into the regulatory framework governing the fire safety of exterior walls in residential and public buildings constructed with wooden building structures. His research, published in the journal *Актуальные вопросы пожарной безопасности* (translated to English as *Current Issues in Fire Safety*), is particularly relevant given the surge in popularity of wooden housing and the advent of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels.
Gorshkov’s work highlights the advantages of CLT panels, which allow for taller structures and faster construction times. However, he argues that the current regulatory system in Russia is not keeping pace with these innovations. “The existing fire-technical classification in the Russian Federation needs to be updated to include an additional special classification by types of fire-resistant timber,” Gorshkov asserts. This update, he believes, is crucial for ensuring the fire safety of modern wooden buildings.
The implications of Gorshkov’s research extend beyond Russia, as the global construction industry increasingly turns to wood as a sustainable and renewable building material. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from these developments. Wooden buildings, with their lower embodied energy and carbon footprint, align with the industry’s shift towards more sustainable practices. However, ensuring the fire safety of these structures is paramount to their widespread adoption.
Gorshkov’s proposed methodology for further experimental studies could pave the way for more robust and fire-resistant wooden structures. This, in turn, could accelerate the acceptance of wood as a viable construction material in the energy sector, leading to more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.
As the construction industry continues to innovate, the need for updated and comprehensive regulatory frameworks becomes ever more apparent. Gorshkov’s work serves as a timely reminder of this, offering a pathway towards safer, more sustainable, and energy-efficient buildings. His research not only shapes future developments in the field but also underscores the importance of continuous review and improvement of regulatory systems to keep pace with technological advancements.