Fireproofing Korea's manufacturing

Samcheok is a city in Gangwon Province, South Korea, bordered by the Taebaek Mountains and the East Sea, about a four-hour drive from the FM office in Seoul. Its population is estimated at 74,000, and it is the quintessential Korean blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

It is also where a significant stride toward enhancing industrial safety has been made. On March 4t FM announced a joint research agreement with Korea Conformity Laboratories (KCL). This collaboration is set to revolutionize fire safety standards, offering cutting-edge solutions to mitigate fire losses across Korea and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

The partnership between FM and KCL is more than a mere business arrangement; it is a fusion of expertise and a shared commitment to a safer industrial environment. FM, with its rich history dating back to 1835, brings a wealth of data-driven insights and a robust framework toward loss prevention. KCL, accredited by the Korea Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (KOLAS), stands as a pillar of excellence in fire testing. Together, they aim to address the most pressing fire risks that threaten Korean manufacturing and industrial facilities.

Dr. Louis Gritzo, FM's chief science officer, articulated the essence of this collaboration. "For Korea’s manufacturing sector to continue its stable growth, it is essential to manage fire risks effectively and prevent losses," he stated. His words underscore the urgency of the task at hand. FM's analysis of Asia-Pacific loss data has identified fire as the most significant risk for Korean manufacturers. The widespread use of flammable building materials and inadequate sprinkler installations exacerbates this risk, making the need for comprehensive fire prevention solutions all the more critical.

The joint research agreement is a proactive response to these challenges. FM and KCL will collaborate to research fire risks, develop prevention solutions aligned with FM's loss prevention data sheets, and support the enhancement of fire safety standards within Korea and the Asia-Pacific region. This collaboration is not just about mitigating risks; it is about fostering a culture of safety and resilience in the face of potential disasters.

KCL's state-of-the-art fire testing laboratories, designed for medium and large-scale fire testing, will play a pivotal role in this endeavor. As the only institution in Korea partnering with FM for fire risk assessment tests on materials and equipment used in commercial and industrial facilities, KCL is uniquely positioned to drive this initiative forward. Cheon Young-Gil, president of KCL, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "As the largest fire testing institution in Korea, we are honored to sign this joint research agreement with FM. Together with FM, we will focus our testing and research capabilities on developing solutions that enable Korean businesses to respond effectively to fire hazards, natural disasters, and other risks."

The signing ceremony, held in the presence of key officials from Samcheok City, was a testament to the collaborative spirit that underpins this agreement. Shin Dong-Gi, Director of KCL’s Fire Safety Division, was among the dignitaries who witnessed this important announcement.

“FM's analysis of Asia-Pacific loss data has identified fire as the most significant risk for Korean manufacturers.”

FM's commitment to this cause is deeply rooted in its history. Since its founding, the company has amassed extensive expertise in loss prevention and risk management. The 1,600-acre FM Research Campus in Rhode Island, the world’s largest research facility dedicated to simulating real-life fire, natural disasters, and other risks, stands as a testament to FM's dedication to empirical research. This vast database of knowledge enables FM to provide industry-specific risk management solutions that are both effective and innovative.

In the context of this collaboration, FM's role extends beyond providing insurance. It is about leveraging its expertise to support Korean companies in meeting stringent fire loss prevention standards and implementing the best-available fire prevention solutions. This proactive approach is crucial for ensuring the stability and growth of Korea's manufacturing sector. 

As the world grapples with the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, the importance of such collaborations cannot be overstated. The joint research agreement between FM and KCL is a timely reminder that through cooperation and innovation, we can build a safer, more resilient future. It is a call to action for industries across the globe to prioritize safety and invest in the research and development of solutions that mitigate risks and protect property.

Ultimately, this partnership is about creating a legacy of resilience and preparedness, ensuring that the industrial heart of Korea and the Asia-Pacific region continues to beat strong. This collaboration stands as a model for how international cooperation can lead to groundbreaking advancements in safety and risk management, setting a precedent for future initiatives worldwide.