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Pre – Conference Tour: Workshop on Timber Structures in Fire: Risk, Resilience, and Innovation (Sunday, May 17nd)

Overview

Held in conjunction with the 14th International Conference on Structures in Fire (SiF’26) and hosted at the Bergeron Centre and York University Fire Lab in Northern Toronto, this specialized workshop and technical tour focuses on fire-resilient timber structures within the broader context of structural fire engineering. Situated within an established research program in structural fire engineering, the workshop creates a focused forum for advancing discussion on fire safety in timber construction, a growing area of interest in Canada and internationally.

The workshop convenes professionals from academia, industry, and government in a think-tank setting guided by three expert panelists from Canada, the Americas, and the international community. Together, participants will examine contemporary challenges and emerging directions in timber structures exposed to fire. Discussions will broadly explore how risk is incorporated into national and international design frameworks, how alternative solution approaches may influence the representation and management of risk, and what deficiencies or vulnerabilities may arise in timber systems under fire conditions. The format is intended to support open, high-level exchange and critical reflection among participants.

The workshop concludes with a guided tour of Toronto’s newest tall timber landmark, Limberlost Place, offering further opportunities for informal dialogue and sustained professional connection within a rapidly advancing field.

Collectively, the workshop and tour strengthen the impact of SiF’26 while advancing applied knowledge on timber performance in fire and fostering collaboration across sectors.

Agenda:

        • 8-12pm: York University 
        • Lunch
        • 4:30pm: Limberlost Tour

 

Registration cost:

The pre-conference technical visit will have a cost of $65 CAD (Aprox. 45 €) plus applicable HST.

** A light breakfast and lunch will be provided, and guided group travel between the Bergeron Centre and Limberlost Place will take place via TTC Line 1 (Subway).