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.

What is Reaction to Fire Testing? Reaction to fire testing is a crucial process. It examines the characteristics of building materials. This includes their combustibility, which helps determine their role in the development and spread of a fire. Materials are classified under BS EN 13501-1. Their classification is based on their reaction to fire, as determined by a series of standard tests. Understanding Reaction to Fire Testing Methods Single Burning Item (SBI) – BS EN 13823:2020 The Single Burning Item test is arguably the most recognizable among the various tests. It specifies a method for assessing construction products' reaction to fire when exposed to thermal attack from a single burning item. This method ensures that materials are rigorously tested under controlled conditions. Non-Combustibility – BS EN ISO 1182:2020 This test classifies products that do not significantly contribute to a fire, regardless of their intended use. The Non-Combustibility test identifies construction materials that produce minimal heat and flame below approximately 750°C. This is essential for ensuring safety during a fire. Small Flame – BS EN ISO 11925-2:2020 The Small Flame test assesses the maximum potential heat release of a product when completely burned, disregarding its intended use. It offers valuable insights into the absolute heat of combustion for a product. This approach does not account for inherent material variability but focuses on baseline characteristics. Calorific Value – BS EN ISO 1716:2018 This method focuses on determining the ignitability of products via direct small-flame impingement. The test uses vertically oriented specimens to evaluate how easily a product can ignite. It helps ensure that products comply with safety standards. Do All Products Need to Use Every Test Method? No, products are not required to complete every test method to determine their classification. Some tests are mandatory depending on the sought classification. Classification and Test Requirements Different classifications carry specific testing requirements. The table below summarizes the testing methods associated with each classification. Classification BS EN ISO 1716 BS EN ISO 1182 BS EN ISO 13823 BS EN ISO 11925-2 A1 Mandatory Mandatory x x A2 Or Or Mandatory x B x x Mandatory Mandatory C x x Mandatory Mandatory D x x Mandatory Mandatory E x x Mandatory Mandatory What Does a Reaction to Fire Classification Look Like? A product’s reaction to fire classification has three main characteristics: Combustibility, Smoke Production, and Flaming Droplets. Each characteristic is assigned a code for clarity. Combustibility A1: Non-combustible materials that do not contribute to the development of a fire. A2: Materials with limited combustibility that do not contribute to fire development. B: Combustible materials with limited contribution to fire development. C: Combustible materials with a minor contribution to fire development. D: Combustible material that contributes to fire development. E: Combustible materials that resist small flames for a few seconds. F: Materials that do not meet class E requirements. Smoke Production s1: Little or no smoke production. s2: Moderate smoke production. s3: Substantial smoke production. Flaming Droplets d0: No flaming droplets or particles. d1: Some flaming droplets and/or particles. d2: A significant amount of flaming droplets and/or particles. Example Classification For instance, if a product has a classification of B-s1,d0 , it indicates limited combustibility ( B ), low smoke production ( s1 ), and no flaming droplets ( d0 ). This classification helps users understand the fire safety properties of the material. Conclusion Knowing the classification of building materials is crucial for ensuring safety in construction. Reaction to fire testing offers a scientific approach to determining how materials behave in a fire. The results help in making informed decisions to enhance public safety. here

Recent Developments Following a recent meeting of UKTC’s Impartiality Committee, several important changes have been confirmed. These changes aim to enhance the committee's effectiveness and ensure continued adherence to high standards. Stephen Kerr of Wylie Shanks Architects has stepped down from his role as Chairman of the Committee after two years in this position. His leadership has been invaluable during this time. Succeeding him is Mark Milne, the Technical & Operations Manager at Paramount Structures. New Leadership Mark Milne brings over 25 years of experience in construction and academia. His extensive knowledge in product design, evaluation, and research will be beneficial for the committee. Notably, Mark played a crucial role in establishing Scotland’s first UKAS accredited structural test laboratory. His expertise will help guide the committee in its future endeavors. New Members Join the Committee In addition to the leadership change, the recent meeting also welcomed two new members to the Impartiality Committee. Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the British Woodworking Federation, and Marya Hubbard, Operations Director of SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, will join Mark on the committee for 2026. Both Helen and Marya bring extensive experience in passive fire protection and UKAS accredited laboratory systems. Their backgrounds will support the committee's goals effectively. Andrew Hutchison, UKTC Operations Director, expressed gratitude for Stephen Kerr's contributions. He stated, “We would like to place on record our thanks to Stephen Kerr for his efforts over the last few years and welcome both Helen and Marya to the committee.” The Importance of Impartiality The UKTC Impartiality Committee plays a crucial role in ensuring that the organization conducts its business in an impartial manner. This is vital for maintaining trust and credibility within the industry. The committee operates in accordance with the latest standards and regulations, which is essential for upholding quality and safety. To discover more about the committee, click here . Conclusion In conclusion, the recent changes in the UKTC Impartiality Committee mark a significant step forward. With new leadership and members, the committee is well-positioned to continue its important work. The commitment to impartiality and adherence to standards will remain a top priority as the committee moves forward. These developments reflect the ongoing dedication to excellence within the organization. As the committee evolves, it will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry. By embracing new perspectives and expertise, the UKTC Impartiality Committee is set to enhance its impact and effectiveness in the coming years.

Keeping your BS EN 13501-1 reaction to fire test evidence is not simply an administrative task, it’s risk control. If you place construction products on the market, your test evidence must reflect what you sell today, not a version of the same product that you tested years ago. Fire performance can change over time through changes to the raw materials, supply-chain, manufacturing processes and product development. Each change, even something minor, can alter how your product behaves when exposed to fire. A BS EN 13501-1 classification only applies to the exact product tested, in the exact configuration tested, for the stated end use application. If your product has changed, your classification may no longer apply which puts your business, and possibly lives, at risk. Ask yourself, does your reaction to fire evidence still match your product exactly as supplied today? This question is being asked more often by clients, insurers, specifiers and building occupants. In practice, BS EN 13501-1 reports older than five years old are frequently questioned. Not because it’s a fixed rule, because confidence in relevance reduces over time. When fire test evidence is outdated or unclear, suppliers are left behind and miss out on opportunities. Don’t get caught out, review your test evidence and the scope of your products regularly by asking yourself these questions… Has the manufacturing process changed? Has the raw materials or supply chain changed? Have product variants been introduced? Is the test evidence up to date? Does the scope and classification clearly identify the product? Does the scope and classification match the real end use?   If you’re unsure, or the answer is no, your reaction to fire test evidence may not be adequate. Maintaining your BS EN 13501-1 classifications supports building safety and protects your commercial position. If you want to discuss your product testing, talk to one of our reaction to fire experts by clicking here: https://www.uktestcert.com/contact-us United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC) is a UKAS accredited laboratory operating from a UK-based fire resistance and reaction to fire laboratory. Manufacturers from across the UK & Europe trust UKTC with their testing & certification . Read more about its reaction to fire services by clicking here .

United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC) celebrated another year of growth within the testing & certification industry. Check out the highlight's video below: Among the highlights are key achievements including UKTC achieving UKAS accreditation for Reaction to Fire testing and Product Certification ( UKTC ensure ). UKTC also delivered their 1000th test report, hosted 3 events and 10 live seminars throughout the year. To finish the year off, the business celebrated breaking ground and beginning the construction works of its new state-of-the-art fire resistance laboratory as an expansion of the existing laboratory site. United Kingdom Testing & Certification offer Fire Resistance & Reaction to Fire testing for passive fire protection and construction product manufacturers across the UK & Europe.

Fire safety in buildings starts with understanding how materials behave when exposed to heat. Testing external wall materials is crucial to keeping building occupants safe. What tests can help identify high-risk building materials? As outlined in PAS 9980:2022, the methodology for Fire Appraisal of Walls & Cladding of Flats, materials with a calorific value of ≤3 MJ/kg are considered to have a positive influence on fire performance, while those with >35 MJ/kg are flagged as higher risk. The BS EN 13501-1 standard provides a harmonised procedure for classifying the reaction to fire of construction products, including those used within building elements. The standard identifies several test methodologies including the BS EN ISO 1716 “Calorific Value” test. This method plays an important role in cladding remediation works as well as compliance with regulatory requirements for high rise buildings. What role does BS EN ISO 1716 have in the testing of external wall materials? BS EN ISO 1716 testing plays a critical role by calculating the calorific value of the product. The results of the test will allow building stakeholders to determine the: Combustibility Risk Suitability of materials in wall systems Compliance with A1/A2 classifications in accordance with BS EN 13501-1 reaction to fire performance of construction products.   What are the seven classes that materials can achieve under BS EN 13501-1? Reaction to fire testing examines the characteristics, such as combustibility, of building materials to determine their contribution to fire development and spread. Materials can then be classified into one of seven classes under BS EN 13501-1 according to their reaction to fire. Non-combustible materials that do not contribute to the development of a fire will achieve an A1 classification with materials that have a limited combustibility that do not contribute to a fire will achieve an A2 classification. The classification system then continues from B, where combustible materials with a limited contribution to fire will be classified, through to F where materials do not meet the minimum requirements of an E classification. You can discover the full list of definitions and the required test methods by visiting our Reaction to Fire page here . Why Reaction to Fire testing is critical for cladding remediation works The ongoing cladding remediation programmes being carried out across the UK are crucial to the safety of occupants. Landlords of buildings 11m or more in height are required to complete any remediation works by the end of 2029 across England and Wales or face legal consequences. Fire testing laboratories, like our UKAS Accredited Reaction to Fire Laboratory play a key role in allowing building stakeholders to identify risks. Reaction to Fire testing can produce the evidence to support whether materials can remain in place and meet the A1 and A2 classifications under BS EN 13501-1 or whether the materials need to be replaced. If you’re specifying, designing, refurbishing, or assessing external walls, BS EN ISO 1716 testing is essential. Talk to our reaction to fire team about testing your external wall materials by clicking here . Our industry leading report turnaround times ensure that you can make decisions and ultimately contribute to a safer built environment.

United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC) has published a groundbreaking white paper, A Transparent Future for Construction Product Certification , setting out a bold vision for accountability and transparency in the construction sector. Why This Matters The white paper summarises the response to the lessons of the Grenfell Tower fire, a tragedy that exposed systemic failings in product testing, regulation, and safety assurance. Despite years of reviews and inquiries, third-party product certification has often remained opaque, with crucial safety information locked away or inaccessible. This white paper outlines why transparent, verifiable certification is no longer optional - it is essential. Manufacturers, regulators, and building professionals all have a responsibility to ensure product safety is backed by evidence that can be trusted and accessed when it matters most. Industry Voices Feedback from fire safety professionals, gathered at the 2024 Fire Safety Event, revealed that: 82% valued transparency and regular testing as the most important factors in third-party certification. 60% had encountered issues with legacy providers. 75% judged credibility of their third-party certification based on UKAS accreditation. The white paper shows how UKTC ensure® directly addresses these concerns by offering an open, accountable system designed for today’s safety expectations. A Call to Action As Andrew Hutchison, Operations Director at UKTC, writes in the paper: “Real change is overdue. Change starts with transparent certification. UKTC ensure® is proud to lead the way.” This is an invitation to manufacturers, regulators, and industry leaders to adopt certification that puts safety and transparency first. Download the White Paper The full white paper, A Transparent Future for Construction Product Certification , is available for digital download here: https://www.uktc-ensure.com/third-party-certification-white-paper

What is BS 8644-1 – Digital Management of Fire Safety Information? The new national standard for the Digital Management of Fire Safety Information was established from a recommendation in Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety. BS 8644-1:2022 enables a standardized industry-wide approach to the management of fire safety information in the built environment. Who is BS 8644-1 Digital Management of Fire Safety Information for? The intended audience of the standard includes any individual or organization involved in the design, construction, occupation, and maintenance of a built asset. The digital management of information is a crucial contribution to the golden thread, another recommendation from Dame Judith Hackitt’s report. It is the responsibility of each organization to contribute to the golden thread. Therefore, the Digital Management of Fire Safety should be referred to and used by every stakeholder throughout a building’s development and lifecycle. What’s included in the BS 8644-1:2022 Standard? The standard provides recommendations for managing, presenting, and exchanging fire safety information using digital information management processes. BS 8644-1:2022 covers the following stages of the lifecycle of assets in the built environment: Briefing Design Construction Asset Handover Operation Fire & Rescue Intervention The standard also offers guidance to those who don’t directly handle fire safety information. This ensures that all building stakeholders can understand the importance of handling information and how it should be presented and accessed. Why is BS 8644-1:2022 important? Traditionally, the management of fire safety information was handled independently at each stage of a building’s lifespan. This led to obscured information and a broken chain of responsibility. To combat this, Dame Judith recommended that “Government should mandate a digital standard of record-keeping for the design, construction, and during the occupation of new high-rise residential buildings (HRBBs).” The purpose of BS 8644-1:2022 is to ensure that relevant information related to fire safety is made available to the right people at the right time. The standard ensures a transparent allocation of responsibility and a consistent naming convention. This will contribute to a greater knowledge of fire safety and a safer built environment. UKTC Ensure, BS 8644-1:2022 & the Golden Thread Established in response to the recommendations of Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review, UKTC Ensure is the first third-party certification scheme that is wholly aligned with the Golden Thread. As a result, it follows the approach and guidance of BS 8644-1:2022. Unlike legacy systems, UKTC Ensure allows passive fire product manufacturers to create a single source of truth. This is in the form of a secure digital landing page that can be accessed by those who need it, when they need it. To find out more about UKTC Ensure or start your certification journey, click here: https://www.uktc-ensure.com/ The Importance of Digital Management in Fire Safety Digital management of fire safety information is not just a trend; it is a necessity. As buildings become more complex, the need for clear and accessible fire safety information grows. This standard ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page, reducing the risk of miscommunication. Enhancing Safety Through Technology Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing fire safety. By adopting BS 8644-1:2022, organizations can leverage digital tools to manage fire safety information effectively. This not only improves safety but also streamlines processes. Training and Awareness Training is essential for all stakeholders involved in fire safety management. Understanding the BS 8644-1:2022 standard is crucial for effective implementation. Organizations should invest in training programs to ensure everyone is aware of their responsibilities. Future of Fire Safety Management The future of fire safety management lies in digital solutions. As technology evolves, so will the standards. BS 8644-1:2022 is a step towards a more integrated approach to fire safety. Organizations must stay updated with these changes to maintain compliance and ensure safety. Conclusion In conclusion, BS 8644-1:2022 is a vital standard for the digital management of fire safety information. It promotes a unified approach to handling fire safety data, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and responsible. By embracing this standard, organizations can enhance safety and contribute to a safer built environment. The digital management of fire safety information is essential for the future of construction and building maintenance. It is a responsibility that all stakeholders must take seriously to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

The Welsh Government has issued significant updates to the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended) and to Approved Document B (Fire Safety, Volumes 1 and 2). A new edition of Approved Document 7 (Materials and Workmanship) 2013 has also been released, now incorporating the 2020 and 2025 amendments. Key Regulatory Amendments The circular letter confirms that amendments affect: Regulation 2(6) – Interpretation Regulation 6 – Requirements relating to material change of use Regulation 7 – Materials and workmanship The principal changes include: Reducing the height threshold for buildings undergoing a “material change of use” from 15m to 11m. Work must ensure compliance with Part B4(1) of Schedule 1, covering external wall requirements. Updating the definition of a “relevant building.” This prohibits combustible materials on external walls of hostels, hotels, and boarding houses. Introducing a ban on relevant metal composite materials as part of external walls. Clarifying product classifications, including the designation of solar shading devices as “specified attachments.” Materials and Fire Safety Provisions The amendments provide further detail on products subject to fire performance requirements: Certain materials are now exempt from reaction-to-fire classification, including fibre optic cables, insulation, waterproofing in specific low-level applications, and the top horizontal floor layer of balconies. In the latter case, compliance may be demonstrated through horizontally tested equivalents under defined circumstances. Changes to Volumes 1 and 2 of Approved Document B introduce new requirements for residential and high-rise buildings: Limits on combustible products in residential buildings between 11m and 18m in height. Mandatory installation of evacuation alert systems. Requirement for secure Information Boxes in all new blocks of flats with any floor 11m or higher. Enhanced floor identification and wayfinding signage for residents and emergency services. The current edition of Approved Document 7 (Materials and Workmanship) with 2020 amendments will be withdrawn on 20 December 2025. An updated version, incorporating the 2020 and 2025 amendments, will take its place. The revised regulations and updated Approved Documents will not apply retrospectively. Where a building notice, initial notice, or full plans have been submitted before the amendments take effect, compliance with the previous standards remains valid—provided work has already commenced or begins within six months of the regulations coming into force. You can read the full details and the issued circular here . Contact our team to discuss and book the testing of your building, construction and passive fire protection materials. UKTC is the trusted testing & certification partner of choice for industry leading manufacturers across the UK & Europe, operating from a state-of-the-art laboratory on the outskirts of Glasgow. Our services include Fire Resistance and Reaction to Fire testing complimented by our Technical Services team offering Extended Field of Application Reports and our Certification team.

Strengthening Fire Testing Capabilities United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC) has been acquired by SOCOTEC UK & Ireland. This acquisition strengthens UKTC’s position as the UK’s premier fire testing provider. It also opens the door to expanded capabilities, investment, and long-term growth. For over 70 years, the SOCOTEC Group, chaired by Hervé Montjotin, has built its reputation as an independent trusted third party. The group specialises in risk management, compliance, safety, health, and environment in the Building, Real Estate, Infrastructure, and Industry sectors. This acquisition marks SOCOTEC’s strategic entry into the fire testing market. It reflects their confidence in UKTC’s technical credibility, market reputation, and customer-centric culture. “We’re pleased to become part of SOCOTEC,” said David Brown , Business Unit Director at UKTC. “This partnership recognizes the business we’ve built and the team behind it. It brings new investment and opens access to capabilities across the broader SOCOTEC group, while preserving our independence, our people, and our promise to customers.” What This Means for UKTC Customers You’ll continue to work with the same friendly, knowledgeable team you already know. There are no changes to our service model, name, or leadership team . You can expect the same high level of technical support, communication, and industry-leading turnaround times you’ve always received. With the backing of SOCOTEC, UKTC will invest in additional testing capacity , enhanced digital certification systems, and new services to meet the evolving needs of construction product manufacturers. “We’ve built our reputation on being responsive, expert-led, and easy to work with,” said Andrew Hutchison , Operations Director at UKTC. “That’s not changing. In fact, with this partnership, we’ll be able to do more—faster, and at greater scale.” Enhanced Services and Future Growth The acquisition by SOCOTEC UK & Ireland will allow UKTC to enhance its service offerings. This includes expanding their testing capabilities and improving their digital certification systems. The focus will be on meeting the evolving needs of construction product manufacturers. With the new investment, UKTC aims to streamline processes and improve efficiency. This will lead to quicker turnaround times for testing and certification. Customers can expect even better service as UKTC integrates new technologies and methodologies. Commitment to Quality and Customer Satisfaction UKTC has always prioritized quality and customer satisfaction. The team is dedicated to maintaining high standards in fire testing and certification. With SOCOTEC’s support, UKTC will continue to uphold these values while expanding its reach. The partnership is built on a foundation of trust and expertise. UKTC will remain committed to providing the same level of service that customers have come to expect. The team will continue to be responsive and accessible, ensuring that clients receive the best possible support. Conclusion The acquisition of UKTC by SOCOTEC UK & Ireland is a significant milestone. It strengthens UKTC’s position in the fire testing market and opens new avenues for growth. Customers can look forward to enhanced services and continued commitment to quality. For more information about SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, visit SOCOTEC UK .

The world of fire testing can be complicated and dense, particularly when understanding the various standards and regulations that guide the process. This article will delve into one crucial standard: BS EN 1634-1, also known as the Fire Resistance Tests for Door and Shutter Assemblies. What is BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 - Fire Resistance Tests for Door and Shutter Assemblies? BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 outlines the test methods used to gauge the fire resistance of door and shutter assemblies, including openable windows and elements of building hardware. As a critical component of fire safety in buildings, fire-resisting doors serve three primary purposes: 1. To restrict the initial development of a fire 2. To limit the spread of fire within the building 3. To safeguard escape routes for occupants The BS EN 1634-1 test regimes determine how long a door withstands a fire attack, a crucial element in ensuring fire safety in buildings. Under BS EN 1634-1 test regimes, a door withstands fire attack for a period of time and for the purpose of the regulation, more than 30 minutes is described as E30 and more than 60 minutes is described as E60. Withstanding a fire attack means the door maintains its structural integrity. BS 476-22 versus EN 1634: Which Fire Testing Standard Should You Use? When it comes to fire testing door sets in the UK, there are two prevalent standards: BS 476-22 and BS EN 1634. While both aim to enhance fire safety in building construction, some key differences exist. BS 476-22 is often considered a slightly less rigorous test than EN 1634. The critical testing difference is the type of thermometer used to control the furnace in each method. The consequence of this is thought to be about a 5-20% reduction in performance when testing in accordance with BS EN 1634 compared with BS 476-22. However, the primary disadvantage of BS 476-22 is that it doesn't support CE or UKCA marking and is not recognised elsewhere in Europe. The Impact of UKCA Marking on Fire Testing Requirements One of the key factors influencing the choice of fire testing standards is the requirement for CE marking and, now, UKCA marking. Following the UK's departure from the EU, the UKCA mark has replaced the CE mark within the UK. While this transition hasn't significantly altered fire testing requirements, it has influenced the choice between BS 476-22 and EN 1634. From June 2025 , only products with UKCA marking will be accepted in Great Britain. Update: The deadline for UKCA marking was extended in September 2024. The length of the extension was not specified. EN 1634-1 vs BS 476-22: Predicting the Future of Fire Testing Standards Despite the UK's separation from the EU, the country is expected to remain closely aligned with all performance standards. If the requirement for internal door sets to also be CE/UKCA marked is introduced, BS 476-22 may lose relevance in testing the fire resistance of door sets. Why EN 1634-1 is Essential for Fire Testing The European standard for testing fire-rated door sets, EN 1634-1, is becoming increasingly significant. This test represents a higher performance standard due to the difference in the type of thermometer used to control the furnace. It also necessitates dual-sided /Bi-directional testing of door sets, bolstering confidence in their performance in the event of a fire regardless of what side of the door the fire might start. The Testing Process Under EN 1634-1 Testing under EN 1634-1 is rigorous and detailed. It begins with an optional sampling visit where an approved/ notified body witnesses the manufacture of the doorset specimen to be tested. The fire door set specimen must then be delivered to the laboratory and conditioned before being installed into a standard supporting construction. Meanwhile, the specimen is surveyed, instrumented with thermocouples and then tested to evaluate its Integrity, Insulation and Radiation performance. A door set to be rated E30 must satisfy the integrity (E) performance criterion for a minimum of 30 minutes. This means it must continue to hold back the fire without casing ignition of a cotton pad, allowing the penetration of a gap gauge or allowing a flame of more than 10 continuous seconds. The results of the test are then compiled in a comprehensive report that includes images, drawings and data, as well as a field of application. The Future of Fire Testing and the Importance of BS EN 1634-1 While the field of fire testing is dynamic and evolving, standards like BS EN 1634-1 provide a robust framework to ensure safety in building construction. By understanding and adopting these standards, we can build safer environments and better protect lives and properties against the devastating impacts of fire. How UKTC can help your passive fire testing needs by testing to BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) is equipped to expertly assist you in all your passive fire testing needs. Our industry-leading, UKAS-accredited testing laboratory No. 21542, a state-of-the-art, fire-testing laboratory is equipped to test to the stringent requirements of BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 and under the guidelines of BS EN 13501-2. Our dedicated team of experts work to ensure your product complies with these stringent industry standards, providing you with the essential certification to provide a clear route to market for your products. We understand that time is critical in today's fast-paced market, and we pride ourselves on providing industry-leading turnaround times. UKTC’s streamlined procedures and efficient systems ensure that our testing processes are completed swiftly without compromising the thoroughness or accuracy of our tests. Our priority is to help you get your product to market quickly while ensuring the utmost safety and quality compliance. Trust UKTC to meet your passive fire testing needs and to navigate the complexities of BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 on your behalf, offering you peace of mind and a competitive edge in the market. 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.

Manufacturers from across the construction and built-environment industry joined UKTC for a morning centred around Reaction to Fire. Attendees were able to experience a live fire test and learn from industry-experts about a product’s journey to classification under EN 13501-1.   Take a look at the event highlights below…     If you want to host an event at UKTC, contact our Marketing Manager for more information – Andrew McGhee, Andrew.McGhee@uktestcert.com