A
brief overview of the new European system of testing and classification
for fire resistance is given on this page. More detailed information on
all the tests and the classification systems can be found in
information sheets which can be downloaded from the registered users
section.
Background to the European approach
There are currently a large number of different tests used across
the EU for assessing the reaction to fire and fire resistance
performance of construction products. The variation and differences
between these existing national tests means that translation or
comparison of performance of a product when assessed by different
methods is impossible. Additionally these test methods are linked to
the relevant national regulatory requirements so pan-European changes
are not easy.
Construction Products Directive (CPD)
The practical implementation of the CPD heralds a major change in
the placing of construction products on the European market. Under the
CPD, products must conform to the relevant European Technical
Specification which in turn calls up European tests for fire and other
properties. Satisfying these requirements and demonstrating compliance
(attesting conformity) allows a manufacturer to CE mark his product.
Before commissioning any testing which may be used in support of CE
marking a product, reference must be made to the relevant European
Technical Specification, since depending on the level of attestation of
conformity (demonstration of compliance) required, sampling by a third
party may be required. Exova Warringtonfire staff will be able to
assist you with this and will determine if this is required.
New European fire test standards
The new European fire test standards (ENs) that have been produced
have been adopted, unchanged, as British Standards. This applies to all
the other countries in the EU. This means that e.g. the fire resistance
standard BS EN 1363-1 will have a technical and editorial equivalence
with DIN EN 1363-1 (in Germany) and AF EN 1363-1 (in France).
Conflicting existing national standards e.g. the relevant parts
of the BS 476 series must be withdrawn or have their scope amended to
restrict their use to products other than construction products.
The following new British Standards are now published:
- BS EN 1363-1 General requirements for fire resistance tests
- BS EN 1363-2 Alternative and additional procedures
- BS EN 1364-1 Fire resistance tests - Non-loadbearing walls
- BS EN 1364-2 Fire resistance tests - Non-loadbearing ceilings
- BS EN 1365-1 Fire resistance tests - Loadbearing walls
- BS EN 1365-2 Fire resistance tests -
Floors and roofs
- BS EN 1365-3 Fire resistance tests - Beams
- BS EN 1365-4 Fire resistance tests - Columns
- BS EN 1366-1 Fire resistance tests - Ducts
- BS EN 1366-2 Fire resistance tests - Dampers
- BS EN 1634-1 Fire resistance tests - Fire Doors and Shutters
The new European classification system
A European standard has been implemented giving details of fire
resistance classification. Classification of fire performance following
a fire resistance test is expressed in terms of specific
characteristics e.g. R - loadbearing capacity, E - integrity and I -
insulation. Additional performance parameters e.g. C - self closing, S
- smoke leakage, may also be used.
The classification of a product as a result of a fire resistance
test will be included in a classification report, which will be issued
separately from the test report. It will be this classification report
which will be used in support of fire performance against a product
standard, for example for CE marking; or for use in claiming compliance
with requirements in AD-B for products or parts of works.
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