§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on the outcome of his departmental inquiry into the use of woodwool formwork for concrete floors; and what action has been taken arising out of it.
§ Mr. FreesonThe report on the fire problems associated with the use of wood-wool formwork for concrete floors is nearly complete and will be published as soon as possible. The Fire Research Station has investigated domestic and office buildings in which woodwool formwork has been used and has carried out its own laboratory tests. Its work indicates that where woodwool has been suitably plastered the structure will be capable of meeting the requirements for fire resistance even if the protection to the steel by concrete is inadequate.