Understanding BS EN 15269-3:2022 and Its Importance

Extended Field of Application (EXAP) Report

Extended Field of Application (EXAP) reports are becoming a top priority for manufacturers across the UK and Europe. These reports enable manufacturers of passive fire protection products to extend the scope of their products based on one or more test results. This can be done without the need to test every possible application or design.

What’s Included in the BS EN 15269 EXAP Standard?

The BS EN 15269 EXAP standard outlines the rules for extending the application and scope of fire-resisting and/or smoke control doors, shutters, and openable windows. It allows approved bodies, like UKTC, to create an EXAP report for an individual or family of products. For fire doors, an EXAP could allow a manufacturer to extend the door leaf size, glazing height and width, and door configuration, including ironmongery options.

The scope of extension will vary for each product and relies on accredited and up-to-date test reports. Before undertaking an EXAP, we recommend conducting a scoping exercise to identify gaps in testing. This ensures that a manufacturer can achieve maximum coverage from their EXAP report.

EXAP reports should be conducted by an organization accredited for the relevant test according to EN ISO/IEC 17025. They must also have carried out at least one test on the product being considered for the EXAP. Anything not covered within the Direct Field of Application (DIAP) or EXAP standard will require testing to the relevant standard.

Why Do Fire Door Manufacturers Need an EXAP?

Following Dame Judith Hackitt’s ‘Building a Safer Future Report’ in 2018, changes were made to Approved Document B. These changes resulted in products and systems for fire resistance being required to be tested to BS EN harmonized standards. Only extended (EXAP) or direct (DIAP) applications can be used to extend results.

Manufacturers who previously relied solely on test evidence under BS 476 should transition their testing and evidence to the BS EN harmonized standard. This transition should occur ahead of the September 2029 deadline. As a result of testing to harmonized standards, manufacturers achieve a Direct Field of Application (DIAP). They can then extend the use of the tested product further using an Extended Field of Application Report (EXAP).

What Are the Benefits of an Extended Field of Application Report?

Previously, manufacturers looking to extend the scope of their products had to test each configuration and application separately. This resulted in high research and development costs. By testing to the harmonized standard (BS EN), manufacturers can extend their product's use through both the Direct Field of Application, which offers a limited extension, and through an EXAP. The EXAP allows for a much greater extension based on a prescribed set of parameters in a harmonized standard and a range of tests.

Additionally, manufacturers can use supplementary data from their supply chains to extend the scope of their products. This is particularly advantageous when incorporating a large range of ironmongery, provided the test was conducted to the appropriate standard and the conditions of extension are met through the prescribed EXAP rule.

By allowing manufacturers to extend their product’s scope using a regulator and industry-approved set of standards, they can minimize the amount of testing required. The strict extension rules of an EXAP also provide a fair and level playing field for all manufacturers. This leaves no doubt about the extent to which a product's scope can be extended. The rulebook is no longer hidden behind the body writing the report, providing greater confidence and clarity to manufacturers.

How Is an EXAP Report Created?

UKTC’s Technical Services team has developed a streamlined, straightforward process that allows manufacturers to maximize their EXAPs. This results in a reduction in testing and development costs. Here’s how we do it:

1) Scoping Analysis

A scoping analysis, or discovery session, is conducted to identify the minimum number of tests required to achieve the desired results of the EXAP. This could include examining all variable elements of the door and the expected end applications for the product. Current available test data to the relevant standard can be considered to reduce the testing requirements needed to complete the evidence for the EXAP.

2) Testing

The identified testing will be carried out according to the relevant BS EN standard. For fire door manufacturers, this would be BS EN 1634-1:2014+A1:2018. By using existing evidence, testing will only be required where there is no available evidence, saving you time and money.

3) Extend

Finalized test data can be extended using DIAP or EXAP standards by an Approved Body, following BS EN 15725:2023 and BS EN 15269-1:2019. At UKTC, your dedicated Technical Services Office is here to assist you.

4) Classification

All evidence must be validated and summarized in an official third-party classification report. This ensures that all findings are credible and meet industry standards.

How UKTC Can Help with Your Testing Needs

At United Kingdom Testing and Certification, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of fire safety testing and compliance. With our expertise in EXAP reports and a suite of testing & technical services under the BS EN 15269 series and BS EN 15254 series, we ensure you meet the necessary legislative requirements of the UK market with confidence.

Contact us today for a consultation, and let's work together to make your building safer and more resilient.

By embracing the BS EN 15269-3:2022 standard and utilizing EXAP reports, manufacturers can significantly enhance their product offerings while ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. This not only benefits manufacturers but also contributes to a safer built environment for everyone.