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As we continue our "let's learn" series, we look at BS 476 Part 22. 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.   What is the Scope of BS 476 Part 22?   The scope of BS 476 Part 22 covers the testing procedures for assessing the fire resistance of any non-load-bearing components of a building when exposed to specific heating and pressure conditions as detailed in BS 476 Part 20. The standard includes detailed observation of the specimen’s behaviour under test conditions, including the manner and timing of failure, if applicable. This comprehensive approach helps in understanding the effectiveness of building components in fire conditions.   How do we test for BS 476 Compliance?   Testing for BS 476 compliance involves several key steps: Placement of Specimen : The non-load-bearing element to be tested is placed in a furnace designed to replicate fire conditions. Heating Conditions : The temperature within the furnace is increased following a predefined time-temperature curve to simulate real fire conditions. Monitoring : Throughout the test, the integrity and insulation performance of the specimen are closely observed. Recording : Observations and measurements are meticulously documented, including any structural changes or failures. What test procedures do we use?   The test procedures for BS 476 Part 22 compliance are centered around simulating fire-like conditions in a controlled environment using specific equipment: ●      Furnace : Capable of reaching up to 1200 degrees Celsius, mimicking the intense heat of a fire. ●      Temperature Measurements : Devices are used to ensure the testing conditions adhere strictly to the specified criteria. ●      Observational Assessments : The specimen's ability to maintain structural integrity and insulate against heat is critically assessed throughout the test duration. What is the Criteria for success? The criteria for a successful BS 476 Part 22 test are based on two main parameters: ●      Integrity : The ability of the specimen to prevent the passage of flames and hot gases. ●      Insulation : The capability of the specimen to limit the temperature rise on the non-exposed surface to below specified thresholds. Additionally, the irradiance is monitored using a radiometer in alignment with BS 476-20 standards. A product is considered to have passed the test if it meets both the integrity and insulation criteria under the defined testing conditions. The government has recently confirmed that the withdrawal of the national classes of fire testing standards in England will come into force on the 2nd March 2025. The European standard (BS EN) will be the sole route of specification within Approved Document B for reaction to fire from March 2025 with references to BS 476 associated with fire resistance to be withdrawn on 2nd September 2029. To learn more about our testing, click here .

In this instalment of our ‘Let’s learn’ series, we look at BS EN 1634-:2014 + A1:2018 – the European standard that specifies the test methods for assessing the fire resistance of door and shutter assemblies. 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.   What is the Scope of BS EN 1634-1?   The scope of BS EN 1634-1 encompasses testing door sets and shutter assemblies to determine their duration of resistance against fire. It evaluates doors based on their ability to maintain structural integrity over time—commonly quantified as thresholds like E30 (30 minutes of resistance) and E60 (60 minutes). The test includes assessments of integrity, insulation, and radiation effects under specified conditions.   What test procedures do we use?   The test procedures under BS EN 1634-1 are detailed and rigorous: Preparation: Includes the manufacture and conditioning of the doorset. Installation: The doorset is installed into a furnace setup typical for this kind of test. Monitoring: The set is continuously monitored with thermocouples and other instruments to evaluate its response to high temperatures. Assessment: Integrity, insulation, and radiation performances are assessed to determine if the doorset can effectively resist fire. What is the Criteria for success?   The criteria for success in a BS EN 1634-1 test are: Integrity (E): The door set must prevent flames or hot gases from passing through and igniting a cotton pad, allow penetration of a gap gauge, or sustain a continuous flame on the unexposed side for no more than 10 seconds within the test duration. Insulation: Involves limiting the temperature rise on the non-exposed side to prevent damage or ignition of surrounding materials. Radiation: The door must not allow radiation levels that could ignite nearby combustibles. Shouldn’t I test for BS 476 Part 22? BS 476 Part 22 is traditionally used in the UK but does not support CE or UKCA marking, limiting its recognition outside the UK. On the 2nd of September 2024 the British Government confirmed that the National Classes fire testing standards will be withdrawn from ‘Approved Document B’ in favour of the EN 13501 European classification standard.   BS EN 1634-1 offers a more rigorous testing environment and is recognised across Europe. It supports CE and UKCA marking, making it essential for products intended for both the UK and European markets post-Brexit. Given the opportunity to transition to UKCA marking for suppliers to the UK market and the broader recognition of BS EN 1634-1 standards in Europe, BS EN 1634-1 is the appropriate choice for ensuring compliance and marketability of fire door sets and shutter assemblies within Europe and the UK. To find more articles in our ‘Let’s Learn’ series, visit our News and Insights page. Are you looking to find out more information? Contact us  at info@uktestcert.com  or call us on 01355 433122; our experienced team will be happy to help.

The Brexit Aftermath & Introduction of UKCA Marking On 31 January 2020, the UK's official departure from the European Union (EU) signalled a series of regulatory shifts. The widely recognised CE marking (Conformitè Europëenne) that denoted product standards across the European Economic Area (EEA) was replaced in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) by the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessment) marking. UKCA Marking: The Timeline of Introduction Initially launched in January 2021, the UKCA marking was voluntary until the initial enforcement date of 1 January 2022. However, various timeline adjustments have been made, primarily due to pandemic-related challenges: 24 August 2021: Extension of CE mark's use until 1 January 2023. 14 November 2022: Further extension of CE mark until 31 December 2024, but not for construction products. 9 December 2022: Extension for CE mark on construction products until 30 June 2025. This deadline was set to ‘allow businesses time to prepare for the UK mark’. Decoding the UKCA Marking for Fire Doorsets Scope and Criteria UKCA marking applies specifically to external doorsets which are to comply with the requirements of the designated standards BS EN 14351-1 and BS EN 16034 before a doorset can be marked: Manufacturers must exhibit complete alignment with the requirements of the standard. A Factory Production Control (FPC) audit and sampling audit are obligatory. Producers must obtain valid test evidence and a classification report for their door sets. If pre-existing tests have been performed, they must be validated by the UK Approval Body. Annual FPC audits are necessary to ensure the manufacturer's continued compliance. Understanding Fire-Resisting and Smoke Control Doorsets To understand if a door requires UKCA marking, it's pivotal to examine the scope of the relevant standard. Currently, UKCA marking is mandatory only for specific types of doorset. Important distinctions: Only doorsets meant for use in fire/smoke compartmentation or escape routes that separate the internal from the external climate and supplied entirely by one manufacturer need to be UKCA marked. 'Door assemblies' requiring multiple manufacturers' components cannot be UKCA marked. UKCA in Different Markets Northern Ireland: UKCA marking is not valid. CE marking, along with the UK(NI) mark, remains in use. European Union: Only CE marking is acceptable. UKCA does not hold value. Important Note: The mark itself (CE or UKCA) isn't the sole proof of compliance. The technical documentation/technical file holds critical importance. CE and Firestopping Products Certain passive fire protection products are mandated to acquire the CE/UKCA mark for market placement. This list includes smoke control dampers, fire-resisting dampers, and fire door hardware, among others. Conversely, other fire-stopping and sealing products have voluntary CE marking (EOTA route) due to the absence of a harmonised/ designated standard. Understanding UKCA & CE Marking: A Comparative View Introduced in 1985 by the European Economic Community, the CE mark serves as a legal declaration by manufacturers about a product's compliance with European directives or regulations. Following Brexit, the UKCA mark was instituted as its counterpart for Great Britain. Key differences: Conformity Assessment Bodies: For CE marking, assessments should be executed by an EU-notified body, while UKCA marking requires a UK-approved body. This might necessitate duplicate testing or certification. Validity: Post-Brexit transition, CE marking remains valid in GB until the end of 2024 and June 2025 for construction products, while UKCA marking isn't recognised in the EU. However, UKCA will be the primary conformity mark in GB after 31 December 2024 The transition from CE to UKCA marking has ushered in a new regulatory landscape for fire doorset manufacturers in the UK. Staying informed and prepared is paramount for businesses navigating these changes. At UKTC, we are committed to ensuring your products are tested to the correct standard and carry the correct regulatory markings to maintain compliance. Update: On 2 September 2024, the Minister for Building Safety and Homelessness issued a Written Ministerial Statement regarding recognition of the Conformité Européenne (CE) marking for construction products. The previously stated deadline of 30 June 2025 for CE marking recognition in Great Britain has now been revoked and any future deadline would be subject to a minimum 2-year transitional period. Are you looking to find out more information? Contact us at info@uktestcert.com or call us on 01355 433122; our experienced team will be happy to help.

Published 26/06/2024 You've recently spent £20,000 on testing your fire doors, only to find out that you need to pay extra for product sample selection. This additional requirement might seem like an unnecessary expense, but it's crucial for obtaining the necessary certifications for your fire doors. Here's why sampling is essential and how it affects your certification process. UKCA/CE Marking and 3rd Party Certification When planning to sell external fire doorsets in the UK or the EU, obtaining the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark or the CE (Conformité Européenne) mark is mandatory. Both of these certifications assure that your products meet the necessary safety and performance standards. Additionally, many clients and regulatory bodies require third-party certification to verify the quality and safety of your fire doors, which may also require sampling. System 1 Fire Doors According to Annex 5 of the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), fire doors fall under System 1. This classification mandates rigorous testing and certification processes, including product sampling before testing. The Role of Sampling in the Certification Process Why Sampling is Mandatory Sampling ensures that the products tested are representative of the actual products that will be sold. This step is critical because it: Ensures Authenticity: Confirms that the tested product is identical to the ones that will be distributed. Maintains Standards: Guarantees that every product meets the required safety and performance standards. Builds Trust: Increases trust with regulatory bodies and customers by demonstrating a commitment to quality and safety. Consequences of Skipping Sampling Without proper sampling, the test evidence for your fire doors cannot be considered valid by a UK Approved or Notified Body. This means that: Certifications Will Be Rejected: Your products won't receive the necessary UKCA/CE marking or some third-party certifications. Financial Loss: The £20,000 spent on testing will be wasted since the tests are invalid without proper sampling. Market Access Issues: Without the required certifications, your external fire doors cannot be legally sold in the UK or EU markets. Steps to Ensure Proper Sampling Engage with Certification Bodies Early Before proceeding with testing, engage with UK Approved or Notified Bodies to understand their specific requirements for sampling. This proactive approach can save you time and money by ensuring you meet all necessary criteria from the outset. Plan for Sampling in Your Budget Include the cost of sampling in your initial budget for product testing and certification. While it may seem like an additional expense, it is a necessary investment to ensure the validity of your tests and the marketability of your products. Collaborate with Your Sales Team Make sure your sales team is fully aware of the certification requirements. They should understand the importance of sampling and its role in securing the necessary UKCA/CE marks and some third-party certifications. This awareness can prevent miscommunications and ensure that all teams are aligned in their objectives. Conclusion Proper sampling is not just a formality but a critical step in the certification process for fire doors. By ensuring that your products are sampled before testing, you can avoid wasting resources and ensure that your fire doors meet the stringent requirements for safety and performance. Remember, the upfront cost of sampling is a small price to pay compared to the potential financial and reputational losses from failed certifications. Make sure to include sampling in your testing plan to avoid costly mistakes and successfully bring your products to market. Contact us today to talk to our friendly team about the importance of proper sampling for fire door certification.

Published 19th June 2024. United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) is thrilled to announce that our head of testing, Daniel Fitzsimmons, will be presenting a keynote at the upcoming National Door Summit: Fire Safety Roundtable. Daniel will delve into the crucial topic of transitioning from BS 476 to EN 1634 standards, offering insights into the nuances of these standards as well as understanding the expression of results. His presentation aims to provide valuable knowledge to professionals navigating the evolving landscape of fire safety regulations. Following Daniel’s keynote, there will be a Q&A session, offering attendees the opportunity to engage on the matter. Event Details: Date: Wednesday, 26th June Time: 10:30 to 12:30 Location: Rolls Suite, Midlands Hotel, Manchester To ensure your participation, please register at the provided link as soon as possible. Don’t miss this chance to gain deeper insights into fire safety standards and network with industry professionals. We look forward to seeing you there.

Published 9th June 2024. Today, we celebrate the importance of accreditation. As a UKAS-accredited organisation, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of quality and excellence in all our endeavours. World Accreditation Day, celebrated on the 9th of June every year, is an initiative by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) to raise awareness about the crucial role that accreditation plays in various aspects of life. This year’s theme, Accreditation: Empowering Tomorrow and Shaping the Future, highlights the transformative power of accreditation in a rapidly changing world. Accreditation, as a cornerstone of quality assurance, enables UKTC to demonstrate our competence, credibility, and compliance with internationally recognised standards. By undergoing rigorous assessment and evaluation processes, UKTC proves that our methodologies, practices, and outcomes meet or exceed the stringent requirements set forth by global accreditation bodies. This validation is not just a formal recognition; it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Overall, World Accreditation Day serves as a reminder of the critical role that accreditation plays in underpinning public and industrial policy, thus reinforcing the importance of the work carried out by our accredited customers in ensuring the quality and reliability of goods and services in the United Kingdom. To find out more about our services then contact our friendly team today.

In case you missed it, here is what you need to know from Andrew Hutchison's speech at the Fire Safety Event. Understanding the Golden Thread In essence, the Golden Thread is about ensuring that the right people have the right information at the right time. This principle is crucial for managing risk effectively, particularly for product manufacturers in the construction sector. According to the Health and Safety Executive, building information must be: Digital Secure A single source of truth Available to those who need it Timely Usable With these principles in mind, UKTC conducted a comprehensive review of third-party product certification in the fire safety industry. Here are our four key recommendations. 1. Centralised Digital Documentation Our review highlighted a critical need for a streamlined approach to certification documentation management. Currently, data is scattered across multiple platforms, leading to inefficiencies and discrepancies. Manufacturers often upload outdated PDF certificates on their websites, while the most recent versions are on the certification body's site. This disjointed information flow creates confusion and undermines the validity of certifications. We propose establishing a centralised repository for certification documents, accessible through a single authoritative source. This would ensure digital accessibility, version control, and verification protocols, providing stakeholders with up-to-date and accurate product information consistently. Centralising documents on the certification body's website as a "single source of truth" enhances transparency, trust, and minimises the risk of misinformation. 2. Clear and Unambiguous Certification Marks Our investigation revealed significant issues with how certified products are marked. Certification marks should be designed so that even the least knowledgeable stakeholders can easily identify a product's provenance and performance. However, we found that many stakeholders struggled to understand these marks. For instance, when shown a certification mark for a fire door, only about 25% of professionals recognised it, and a mere 10% could accurately state the door's performance without further research. To address this, we recommend basic requirements for product labels, including: The name of the voluntary third-party scheme Reference to the product's certificate Manufacturer contact details A unique identifier like a serial number Product classification Instructions for handling, maintenance, and installation Implementing these measures ensures that stakeholders have the necessary information to make informed decisions, benefiting everyone from consumers to professionals. 3. Scheme Rules Shall be Accessible and Independently Verified Our review also uncovered that many certification scheme rules are inaccessible and overly complex. Even industry experts struggle to navigate these convoluted regulations, which vary across certification bodies. Some schemes require ongoing audit testing, while others do not, creating inconsistencies and confusion. We propose a collaborative effort among certification bodies, industry representatives, and regulators to establish a unified minimum standard for third-party certification schemes. These standards should be clear, accessible, and written in plain English, making it easier for stakeholders at all levels to understand and compare certifications. This unified approach will enhance accountability and ensure schemes are fit for purpose in a changing marketplace. 4. Unbroken Chain of Evidence Finally, we emphasise the importance of a traceable chain of evidence for any compliance claims. A one-page certificate alone is insufficient for ensuring transparency and accountability. Manufacturers should provide a certificate that includes references to the documents verifying the product's performance. These supporting documents should be easily accessible, allowing stakeholders to review the evidence behind the product's compliance. We recommend including a direct link on the product certificate to the repository of supporting evidence. This approach enhances transparency, accountability, and confidence in the certification process, ensuring stakeholders can trust that the product performs as claimed. Conclusion In summary, third-party certification plays a crucial role in upholding the Golden Thread's principles. To truly align with the Golden Thread, third-party certification must evolve and improve. Transitioning to digital documentation, providing clear product markings, making scheme rules accessible, and establishing a traceable chain of evidence are essential steps towards enhancing the effectiveness and credibility of third-party certification. By implementing these recommendations, we can move towards a future where trust, transparency, and integrity are the foundation of our built environment. Together, let's move towards a future where trust, transparency, and integrity form the solid foundation of built environment​. To be in with a chance of winning a £100 Amazon Voucher, click the button below and take part in our 3rd Party Certification Questionnaire.

United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) is excited to announce that it will be joining the line up at The Fire Safety Event at the NEC in Birmingham on April 30th-2nd May, 2024. Find us at Stand 5/D105. The Fire Safety Event showcases the UK’s largest gathering of fire safety professionals, promising an unparalleled showcase of the latest products, technologies, and solutions in fire safety, making it an essential destination for anyone involved in the build environment industry. Expect a rich program of seminars, live demonstrations, and workshops designed to provide insights into the most current trends, regulations, and practices in fire safety. We’re excited to meet and showcase our latest fire safety services to current and new clients across the industry. To register for your free pass, please visit this link Andrew Hutchinson - Head of Technical Services said, “It’s great to be back at the FSE 2024, showcasing the latest developments and technology in the built environment. It's an exciting opportunity for us to collaborate with industry leaders and government organisations, driving forward advancements in fire safety and certification standards”. Daniel Fitzsimmons - Head of Testing said, “We're excited to share our expertise in market leading solutions for end-to-end testing, inspection, and fire certification with our growing team at UKTC. Our presence here underscores our commitment to advancing fire protection standards and ensuring the utmost safety for all”.

UKTC Presenting at the FSE 2024 We are delighted to announce that United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) will be presenting a keynote session at FSE 2024, focusing on the crucial topic of " Evolving 3rd Party Certification Schemes to Embrace the Golden Thread." 📅 Date & Time: 🗓️ April 30th & May 1st, 2024 🕒 15:45 - 16:45 In the dynamic landscape of the construction industry, adherence to the Golden Thread principles is fundamental for upholding project integrity and safety. At UKTC, we recognise the imperative need to adapt third-party certification schemes to seamlessly align with these principles. Join us for an insightful exploration of how 3rd party certification can evolve to fully embrace the Golden Thread, ensuring the enduring integrity of construction projects. Meet Our Speaker: We are honoured to present Andrew Hutchison as our speaker for this keynote presentation. Andrew holds a master’s degree in engineering from the esteemed University of Glasgow and is widely acclaimed for his significant contributions to the field. With extensive experience, including spearheading the development of Scotland's inaugural fire safety laboratory and achieving ISO 17025 and 17065 accreditations, Andrew brings unparalleled expertise to our discussion. In his role as Head of Technical Services at UKTC, Andrew leads the strategic development of new technical services and champions continuous improvement initiatives. Do not miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the future of 3rd party certification schemes and their alignment with the Golden Thread principles.

Published 19th April 2024 In light of recent discussions surrounding the March 2024 update to Approved Document B, it's essential to address certain misconceptions that have arisen regarding the status of the National Classification System. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) commissioned a consultation in December 2022 seeking to amend certain aspects of Approved Document B (ADB)[1]. The consultation proposed that sprinklers be fitted in new care homes regardless of building height, removing the national classification system for construction products and requiring them to be tested to the British Standard version of the European Standard, and introducing a threshold that residential buildings over 30 meters in height should have two staircases. The consultation also calls for evidence on revisions to paragraphs 10.6 and 10.7 of ADB, which cover materials and products used in the construction of external walls. On 29 March 2024, DLHUC published a response to the consultation that can be found here. Whilst the response has resulted in noteworthy changes to ADB relating to the means-of-escape provisions, there is no comment made on the removal of the National Classification System. Furthermore, DLHUC state that the response is a “partial response” and that a “further response to other parts of that consultation will be published in due course”. This underscores the need for further evaluation of the response and any statements suggesting definitive conclusions regarding the removal of the National Classification are premature. Moreover, discussions surrounding the perceived superiority of BS 476-22 over EN testing methods warrant careful consideration. While advocates for the retention of BS 476-22 emphasize its historical use and perceived reliability, it's crucial to acknowledge the advancements made in testing methodologies and standards globally. EN testing methods have been developed to align with evolving international standards and best practices in fire safety. Any decisions regarding the continuation of BS 476-22 should take into account not only its historical significance but also the potential benefits of adopting modern, internationally recognized testing standards. In conclusion, while the updates to Approved Document B represent a significant step forward in enhancing fire safety regulations, it's imperative to approach discussions surrounding BS 476 Parts 20 and 22 with accuracy and diligence. The decision-making process is ongoing, and any assertions regarding its outcome should be tempered with an understanding of the complexities involved and the need for comprehensive evaluation. [1] Please note ADB sets out statutory guidance on meeting certain requirements of the Building Regulations, relating to England only.

United Kingdom Testing and Certification are delighted to introduce our newest team member, Ian Laithwaite, as our Certification Manager. With Ian onboard, we're primed to reach new heights in ensuring quality and compliance with the development of 3rd party schemes covering a range of passive fire protection products for our valued customers. Bringing over two decades of experience in product certification, Ian has honed his expertise through diverse roles in various UK certification bodies. His wealth of knowledge and insight into industry standards make him the perfect fit to lead the development of third-party schemes for UKTC. In his role, Ian will spearhead the creation of innovative certification programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of our growing customer base. These initiatives will not only uphold our commitment to excellence but also provide our clients with the assurance they need in today's competitive market landscape. Ian Laithwaite shared his excitement about joining the team, stating, "I am eager to get started and contribute to the development of robust certification schemes that instill confidence in our clients, their services, and their products." With Ian's appointment, we reaffirm our dedication to providing reliable, trusted, and innovative certification services. Welcome aboard, Ian!

Smoke leakage testing is a critical procedure for assessing the efficacy of smoke control door and shutter assemblies at ambient temperatures. This test is essential for understanding how smoke can travel through doors and shutters during a fire, simulating cold air leakage which mirrors smoke movement in real-life fire situations. Why Smoke Leakage Testing is Essential Doors serve as crucial components in buildings, required to fulfill multiple roles due to evolving building codes. A key aspect of their functionality is to maintain a safe environment, where controlling smoke spread is increasingly becoming a regulatory requirement. In many scenarios, a fire door that blocks flames but allows smoke to pass is considered insufficient. The emphasis is on doors that can also prevent smoke spread, particularly cold or ambient smoke as specified in some regions like the UK. These doors typically incorporate intumescent seals that expand under fire conditions to seal gaps, ensuring the containment of fire and smoke within compartments. The Smoke Leakage Testing Process The testing involves a specialized chamber setup where the door or shutter sample is installed. This chamber is equipped with fans, a pressure transducer, and a flow meter to control and measure the pressure and rate of leakage across the door or shutter. By adjusting the fan’s polarity, the test can simulate both inward and outward leakage, providing a comprehensive view of the assembly’s performance under different pressure scenarios. Choosing UKTC for Your Smoke Leakage Testing Needs United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) offers thorough smoke leakage testing services following BS EN 1634-3 and BS 476-31.1 standards. Our advanced laboratory is equipped with the latest testing technology to ensure accurate and reliable results. Smoke leakage testing is an integral part of ensuring fire safety in buildings, as it helps identify potential pathways for smoke during a fire, which is crucial for protecting lives. For more information, reach out to us at info@uktestcert.com or call 01355 433122. Our experienced team is here to assist with all your smoke leakage testing needs, ensuring your product is as safe and resilient as possible.