Reaction to Fire
United Kingdom Testing and Certification can offer Reaction to Fire Testing Services through strategic partner laboratories that are UKAS accredited for this activity.
Reaction to Fire testing examines the characteristics, such as combustibility, of building materials to determine their contribution to fire development and spread. Such materials can be classified into one of seven classes under BS EN 13501-1 according to their reaction to fire:
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A1 – Non-combustible materials, do not contribute to the development of a fire
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A2 – Materials with limited combustibility, do not contribute to the development of a fire
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B – Combustible, limited contribution to fire
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C – Combustible, minor contribution to fire
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D – Combustible, contributes to fire
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E – Combustible, will only resist a small flame for a few seconds
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F – Materials that have not been classified or have not met minimum requirements of class E.
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To obtain a classification, products are tested according to the following test methods:
Each classification requires certain test methods to be conducted and is summarised by the below table:
This procedure specifies a method of test for determining the reaction to fire performance of construction products when exposed to thermal attack by a single burning item (SBI).
This test determines the potential maximum total heat release of a product when completely burned, regardless of its end use. This method determines the absolute value of the heat of combustion for a product without accounting for inherent product variability.
This test identifies products that will not, or not significantly, contribute to a fire, regardless of their end use. This fire test has been developed to select construction products which produce a very limited amount of heat and flame when exposed to temperatures of approximately 750 °C.
This method specifies a test for determining the ignitability of products by direct small-flame impingement under zero impressed irradiance using vertically oriented test specimens.
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How much does a fire resistance test cost?Full-scale Fire Resistance tests are available from £7,800 plus VAT. However, every test is unique, and fees can vary based on the scope of work involved. During contract review, UKTC personnel will work collaboratively with customers to ensure that the broadest field of application is achieved whilst minimising investment.
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What is BS 476 Part 22?BS 476 Part 22 is a key standard within the UK's building safety regulations that specifies methods for testing the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements of construction, such as doors, shutters, and various types of ducts and dampers. This standard is instrumental in determining how these elements will perform in the event of a fire, ensuring they meet the necessary safety requirements to protect building occupants and property.
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What is BS EN 1634-1?BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 is a European standard that specifies the test methods for assessing the fire resistance of door and shutter assemblies, including openable windows and elements of building hardware. This standard is crucial for evaluating how well these components can withstand fire, aiming to restrict fire development, limit its spread, and protect escape routes.
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How long does it take to get results?On completion of the test, the responsible officer will confirm the results within 24 hrs. This will be followed by a comprehensive draft report within 14 days.
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Can my product be changed from what was tested?Unlike fire resistance tests under British Standards, European standards provide a Direct Field of Application (DIAP) which detail the permissible changes from what was tested. An Extended Field of Application (EXAP) can also be undertaken which offers a great scope of variations than a DIAP.
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What is third-party certification?Third-party certification is independent verification that a product or service fulfils certain criteria. With passive fire protection products, this normally involves a certification body assessing test results, carrying out a factory production control audit and undertaking periodic inspections to ensure constancy of performance. UKTC work with many approved certification providers, including Bluesky Certification, IFC Certification and UL Solutions.
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What is UKCA Marking?UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking is the new product marking which will be required for certain products placed on the market in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland).
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Does my product require UKCA Marking?The Construction Products Regulation in Great Britain states that any Construction Product covered by a UK Designated Standard must be UKCA marked.
