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Championing transparency in material specifications for fire safety with Michael McGarry
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In Australia’s growing modular construction industry, fire safety and compliance are paramount. Michael McGarry, a key advocate in this field, leads the way in promoting the highest standards of safety and compliance. Based in Melbourne with IBP International, McGarry is a strong advocate for the use of compliant materials, including D-Rock Stone Wool, a non-combustible insulation which contributes greatly to the passive fire protection of modular structures.
“The challenge we face is the amount of misinformation in the market, especially regarding non-combustibility and insulation properties,” McGarry explains. He emphasises the need for clarity and accuracy in material specifications, a principle embodied by D-Rock Stone Wool insulation. Made from 100% basalt (volcanic) rock, its non-combustible performance is tested to the NCC compliance requirements of AS 1530.1, AS1530.3, and its continuous fire resistance levels are tested to AS 1530.4.
One of McGarry’s key advocacies is the importance of early engagement with suppliers. “You can put potential issues to bed quickly,” he asserts, highlighting the benefits of addressing potential problems from the outset. This proactive approach ensures that materials like D-Rock are integrated into projects in a way that maximises their safety and compliance benefits.
McGarry also states that, “Modular building compartments that are enveloped by D-ROCK Stone Wool insulation will benefit from the fire being contained and reduce the risk of the spread of flames throughout the structure. Another big plus is that D-ROCK produces an extremely low smoke growth rate release when compared to the deadly toxic smoke emitted from many other chemical-based insulations. This feature could be particularly beneficial in emergency situations, as it may enhance fire rescue efforts and reduce the potential for harm to building occupants.”
A lack of common language, particularly in the non-combustibility space, is a significant concern for McGarry. “There’s a lot of misinformation about what materials do,” he notes. D-Rock stands as a counterpoint to this issue, offering a material whose performance is backed by rigorous testing, real-world installations and continuous passive fire protection when installed. “It’s an ideal material for use, particularly in non-Sprinklered modular construction applications as well as fire control joints and openings, McGarry explains, underscoring D-Rock’s versatility and compliance.
“The requirements are getting much more stringent every day,” McGarry observes. As standards evolve, materials like D-Rock Stone Wool insulation, which are NCC compliant, play a crucial role in meeting the industry’s increasing demands for safety and performance.
