#Canada #J.S. Held #Jericho #GHL Consultants #Fire Engineering

J.S. Held Expands Its North American Presence

In a notable move within the consulting industry, J.S. Held, a prominent global consulting firm, has announced the acquisition of GHL Consultants Ltd., a Canadian company that specializes in fire engineering and building code compliance. This strategic acquisition marks a significant expansion for J.S. Held, enhancing its capabilities and services in the Canadian market.

Enhancing Expertise and Services

GHL Consultants, based in Canada, is renowned for its innovative approaches that bridge safety and design in fire engineering and building code compliance. The firm's team of experts provides valuable consulting services to a wide array of clients, including developers, architects, government bodies, legal professionals, and educational institutions like hospitals and universities. With this acquisition, J.S. Held adds more than 1,500 technical, scientific, financial, and strategic specialists to its roster.

Andrew Harmsworth, the Founding Principal of GHL, expressed optimism about the acquisition, stating, "Joining J.S. Held presents an incredible opportunity to empower our growth trajectory. We are excited to collaborate with J.S. Held’s global team of experts in areas like forensic architecture and fire investigation. Our shared knowledge and specialties were key reasons we chose to integrate with J.S. Held."

Strengthening Client Relationships

GHL has established a solid reputation for exceptional client service and collaboration, particularly in ensuring safety in building design and construction. Their services span various areas, such as:

• - Building Code Compliance: The firm focuses on fire safety and accessibility regulations under Canadian building codes as well as the U.S. International Building Code and NFPA Codes. Their deep understanding of construction safety regulations helps clients navigate compliance efficiently.
• - Fire Engineering Solutions: Utilizing advanced methods like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling, GHL provides innovative solutions for fire protection, risk assessment, and performance-based design.
• - Wood Fire Safety: GHL plays a significant role in advising on fire safety standards for wood-framed buildings and has contributed to national code amendments that support the construction of taller timber structures.
• - Transportation Sector Expertise: The firm has honed its expertise for advising on NFPA 130 within rapid transit systems, airport projects, and unique infrastructure ventures that may fall outside standard building guidelines.
• - Legal and Forensic Services: GHL offers specialized support in legal cases, leveraging scientific fire modeling to assist in mediations and litigations by reconstructing fire scenarios to analyze causes and growth patterns.

John Buscemi, the Managing Principal at GHL, pointed out that GHL's clients will now benefit from the extensive technical expertise offered by J.S. Held, including accident reconstruction and environmental safety consulting. GHL’s integration into J.S. Held also connects its team members with a broader network of resources, mentorship, and branding opportunities.

Strategic Growth in Canada

As a significant player in expanding J.S. Held's presence in Canada, GHL brings with it decades of engineering and architectural expertise tailored to the demands of the evolving Canadian market. Jim Stanilious, the Senior Executive Vice President and leader of J.S. Held's Insurance Services Division, remarked on the transaction's potential, stating, "The technical knowledge of GHL enhances our advisory role to insurers, developers, and various government agencies."

GHL Consultants will become part of a global consulting firm that supports clients through high-stakes situations requiring rapid attention and strategic insight. With J.S. Held's extensive suite of services and resources, the combined firm is well-positioned to address the growing complexities within construction, safety, and compliance sectors.

About J.S. Held

Founded with the mission of delivering comprehensive consulting services, J.S. Held leverages a blend of technical, scientific, and financial expertise. The firm operates globally, providing insights that help clients manage risks and harness opportunities effectively. Notably, it supports a diverse clientele, including numerous law firms, insurance companies, and Fortune 100 enterprises. J.S. Held's unique approach aims to empower organizations, ensuring they navigate challenges with integrity and informed analysis.

With the acquisition of GHL Consultants, J.S. Held not only strengthens its service offerings in Canada but also solidifies its role as a responsive and innovative leader in the consulting industry.