The fire safety flaws that lay undetected for over a decade have been revealed by a fire safety expert during an inquiry into the tragedy. Dr Barbara Lane, an expert witness who analysed the fire for the investigation, said safety measures within the building were not suitable and many external materials flammable.
She is one of four specialists due to give evidence about the tragedy this week, but did not provide an opinion about fire-performance, which she is expected to give at a later date. Her forensic examination painted a picture of a refurbishment of the external wall and flat windows that was riddled with errors. The refit was overseen by the Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation and contractor Rydon between 2012 and 2016.
Work done on the lifts in 2005 and 2012-16 left them unfit for evacuating the building of vulnerable residents and aiding the emergency response, Dr Lane said on Monday. They lacked features including an escape hatch, a secondary power supply or doors that can resist a fire for 60 minutes, it was heard.
The block’s dry rise system – pipes through which the fire service pump their own water into the building – was also said to go against statutory guidance. A gas pipe running from the basement throughout the building was installed in 2016 and remained exposed at key points during the fire, the expert continued.
The inquiry continues.
