LGS Washington Metal Works – Steel Column Encasements
Passive Fire Protection for a Light Gauge Steel Manufacturing Extension
At Bee Fire Protection Ltd, we were appointed to deliver passive fire protection works as part of an extension to the existing Washington Metal Works manufacturing facility, constructed using a Light Gauge Steel (LGS) frame system.
The project required compliant structural steel encasements to the fire boundaries of the new building, supporting fire resistance requirements while aligning with the speed and efficiency associated with LGS construction.
Project Overview
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Client: Washington Metal Works
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Project: Manufacturing Facility Extension
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Sector: Industrial / Manufacturing
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Location: Washington
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Programme: October – November 2025
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Services Provided: Steel Column Encasements
The extension formed a bolt-on to the existing operational facility, requiring careful coordination and compliant installation of fire protection measures.
Project Requirements
Light Gauge Steel buildings are increasingly utilised within the construction industry due to their cost efficiency and speed of build.
This project required:
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Fire protection to structural steel elements forming the fire boundaries
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A solution compatible with an LGS construction system
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Installation in line with tested and approved systems
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Coordination with the main contractor and wider project team
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A compliant finish suitable for an operational manufacturing environment
Challenges & Considerations
The key considerations on this project included:
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Integration of fire protection systems within an LGS structure
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Maintaining continuity of fire resistance at fire boundary locations
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Coordinating works within an active manufacturing site
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Ensuring the chosen encasement system met performance requirements
Accuracy and attention to detail were critical to ensure compliance and long-term performance.
Our Solution
Working alongside LGS Ltd and the wider project team, we installed compliant structural steel encasement systems to the required fire boundary elements.
Our works included:
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Installation of steel column encasements to fire boundary locations
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Use of British Gypsum Glasroc Firecase encasement systems
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Installation carried out strictly in line with manufacturers’ tested systems
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Coordination with site teams to maintain programme and access
All works were delivered by experienced operatives with a strong focus on quality and compliance.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
Structural encasement systems must be installed correctly to achieve the required fire resistance performance.
Our quality assurance process included:
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Installation in accordance with tested and approved system details
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Verification of fixing methods and detailing
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Inspection of completed encasement works
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Documentation to support fire safety and compliance records
This ensured the completed installation met fire strategy requirements and provided long-term protection.
Project Outcome
The completed works provided compliant fire protection to the structural steel elements of the new extension, supporting safe operation and regulatory compliance.
The outcome delivered:
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Fire-resistant protection to steel columns
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Compliance with fire boundary requirements
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A solution compatible with Light Gauge Steel construction
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A successful contribution to the overall project programme
Client Feedback
Mark Dickenson, LGS Ltd – Director, commented:
“So proud of the whole team. We have had some lovely comments from the client about our performance and the building itself. Once the external concreting works are finished and it’s fitted out, we will do a case study on the website and add in the wonderful testimonial from the client. Thanks to Andy Beach and the Bee Fire Protection team for their help and advice.”
Industrial & Manufacturing Sector Experience
This project demonstrates our experience delivering passive fire protection within industrial and manufacturing environments, including modern Light Gauge Steel structures.
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If your project involves Light Gauge Steel construction or requires compliant structural fire protection solutions, our team is here to help.
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