Cantonal Fire Insurers Association takes over Fire Technology Laboratory

The future of Empa’s Fire Technology Lab is secured

Dec 19, 2014 | MICHAEL HAGMANN
At the beginning of this year Empa announced that it was seeking a new source of financial support for the future operation of its Fire Technology Laboratory. The Swiss Association of Cantonal Fire Insurance Underwriters (VKF) has agreed to take over and continue operation of the laboratory from 2016. Swiss industry can therefore continue to count on an independent partner which enjoys a reputation for quality and reliability in delivering solutions to all issues involving fire safety and protection.
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After period of intensive contact and negotiation, Empa and the VKF have agreed that the institution’s Fire Technology Laboratory will be transferred to the control of the VKF with effect from January 1st 2016. Numerous discussions in the run-up to the agreement have concluded that this solution is economically sensible and politically acceptable. In entering this agreement, Empa and the VKF have ensured that the laboratory infrastructure, which is unique in Switzerland, remains intact and continues to be operated by a competent technical team. The services offered by the laboratory find all-round appreciation, in particular by industry and the Swiss Technical Universities.

In taking on the responsibility for the Fire Technology Laboratory, the VKF has continued its aim of expanding its spectrum of services to Swiss manufacturers of building products, thereby reinforcing its position as a national competence and service centre for fire safety and protection issues. Under the motto «fire safety - everything from one source», the VKF is planning to establish a national test, certification and inspection entity for building products. To ensure that the necessary technical capabilities are available, specific targeted partnerships will be created.

Until the definitive takeover of the Fire Technology Laboratory is completed on January 1, 2016, the existing team will continue to offer the same high quality service as ever under the Empa brand, in close cooperation with the VKF project management.

 
 
 

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