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On the 24th of January 2024, the Department of Business and Trade has issued an update stating that the government intends to legislate to continue recognition for EU requirements including the CE marking. This new update does not apply to the construction industry for construction products and CE will continue to be discontinued in recognition of the UKCA as planned in summer 2025. What is UKCA marking in the construction industry? The UKCA marking is the conformity marking used for products being placed on the market in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales). The UKCA regime has been operational since 1 January 2021 and from this date, where a product is covered by a designated standard and meets the relevant requirements, you are able to place the UKCA marking on your product and then place the product on the GB market. How UKTC is best placed to meet your UKCA testing requirements? UKTC has been investing heavily in new capacity to accommodate the rapid interest and need expected for products to be tested and marked to UKCA standards. Need assistance getting your fire and smoke doors UKCA Marked. Speak to a member of the UKTC team today who will be on hand to assist with all your UKCA Marking queries.

In the United Kingdom, fire-rated doors are crucial to building safety, serving as a frontline defence against the spread of fire and smoke. These doors are designed and constructed to withstand fire for a certain period, usually rated in minutes (30, 60, 90, etc.), to allow safe egress and help contain the fire. British Standards and UKAS Certification: Ensuring Safety and Compliance The manufacturing and installation of fire-rated doors in the UK are governed by stringent standards and regulations. One of the key standards is BS-EN 1634-1, which outlines the requirements for fire resistance and smoke control tests for door and shutter assemblies. This standard ensures that fire-rated doors are rigorously tested for their integrity and ability to resist fire under controlled conditions. Another critical aspect of fire-rated doors is the certification by UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service). UKAS accreditation provides assurance that the products, services, and personnel meet the required standards and are competent to carry out specific tasks. For fire-rated doors, this means that they have been tested, evaluated, and certified to meet the highest safety standards. Features and Importance of Fire-Rated Doors Fire-rated doors typically consist of a combination of materials like timber, steel, and fire-resistant glass. They are equipped with special seals that expand in the presence of heat to prevent the passage of smoke and fire. Additionally, these doors are usually fitted with self-closing mechanisms to ensure they remain shut in case of a fire, an essential feature for maintaining the integrity of fire compartments within a building. The primary function of fire-rated doors is not just to provide a barrier against fire but also to ensure that there is a safe route for the building's occupants to evacuate. They are commonly installed in areas that are more susceptible to fire, such as kitchens, boiler rooms, and areas with electrical equipment. Need assistance getting your doorsets fire tested? Speak to a member of the UKTC team today who will be on hand to assist with all your testing queries.

In the wake of Brexit, the United Kingdom has been charting a course that increasingly diverges from the European Union's regulatory framework. This shift has significant implications for various sectors, including the manufacturing and certification of fire doorsets. Navigating these changes can be challenging, but with the right information and resources, businesses can adapt smoothly and continue to thrive. Post-Brexit Changes in UK Standards Since the departure from the EU, the UK has begun to establish its own set of standards, moving away from the previously harmonized EU norms in some cases. A clear example of this divergence is seen in the certification process for fire doorsets, a critical component in building safety. According to recent reports, the UK is steadily developing its own regulatory environment, distinct from the EU's rules (The Guardian, Dec 2023). The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) is currently pressing ahead with replacing the CE mark with UKCA, for all construction products sold in the UK from June 2025. The new mark incorporates the same standards as the EU version - however only Initial Type Testing (ITT) undertaken by UK-accredited testing facilities will be able to be used to validate it. Despite a u-turn from the Department for Business & Trade which saw an indefinite extension to to recognise CE Marking, a spokesperson for DLUHC has confirmed that the intention was not to recognise the CE mark from June 2025 however added that they need to provide certainty for the sector and are carefully considering recommendations by independent reviewers and will set out the next steps in due course. The UKCA Marking One of the pivotal changes is the introduction of the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) marking. This marking is now mandatory for fire doorsets being sold in Great Britain. Importantly, it must be noted that only products tested after December 31, 2022, need to be assessed by a UK-approved body. This means that products tested before this date under previous EU standards may not require immediate retesting. Expanding UK Testing Capacity UKTC has been investing heavily in new capacity to accommodate the rapid interest and need expected for products to be tested to UKCA standards. United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) at the Forefront UKTC is playing a vital role in this transition. As an organization committed to ensuring safety and compliance, UKTC offers comprehensive testing and certification services for fire doorsets. We are well-equipped to help businesses navigate the new UKCA marking process, providing expertise and support in an area where currently there is limited coverage.

As the year draws to a close, UKTC reflects on it's performance this year and shares some key stats. As we draw to the end of 2023, we're proud to have conducted over 300 Fire Tests this year, Doubled laboratory size to over 25,000 sq. ft, welcomed 10 new bright minds to our growing team and added 6 new test methods to our capabilities. We look forward to continue working with our existing friends, partners and customers alike in 2024. Looking towards January; we have ambitious new plans to further expand our testing and certification portfolio as well as expanding our team, ensuring we deliver a Best-In-Class service that delivers market-leading testing solutions as well as assurance, trust and confidence to our end clients.

In the evolving landscape of fire safety and building regulations, a significant shift is occurring in the standards governing fire door testing. As we delve into the nuances of this transition, it's essential to comprehend the implications for manufacturers, builders, and safety professionals. Understanding the Current Standards: BS 476-20 The BS 476 series has been a cornerstone in fire testing elements of construction in the UK. This standard specifies methods for determining the fire resistance of elements of construction, including fire doors. However, since 2014, the British Standards Institution (BSI) has ceased maintaining BS 476-20 and the downstream standards, meaning these standards will not be updated in the future. Whilst it has not been officially withdrawn, due to its legitimate need in non-EU markets, the foreword in BS 476-20 does state it has been superseded by BS EN 1363-1 and BS EN 1363-2. This stagnation poses a significant concern for the industry as it may lead to outdated testing methods that don't align with current safety needs or advancements. The Shift to EN 1363: A Proactive Approach In contrast, the European Standard EN are increasingly being recognised as a more comprehensive and up-to-date standards for fire resistance testing elements of construction. These standards focus on determining the Integrity, Insulation and Loadbearing Capacity of elements of construction. With the UK construction industry moving towards more European standards, the relevance of EN 1363-1 is more pronounced than ever. The Case for Transition The cessation of updates to BS 476-20 and the looming possibility of its exclusion from approved documents in England, Wales, and technical standards in Scotland underscore the urgency of transitioning to EN 1363-1 and EN 1363-2. Moreover, with the growing legal requirement for construction products to be CE/UKCA marked, testing to EN 1363-1 and EN 1363-2 is not just a matter of choice, its likely to become a serious matter of compliance. Protecting Investment and Ensuring Compliance For manufacturers and stakeholders in the fire safety industry, the shift to EN 13631 and EN 1363-2 is not merely a regulatory hoop to jump through. It represents a commitment to quality, safety, and future-proofing investments in fire safety products. Testing to EN standards ensures that products are evaluated against the latest safety criteria, offering peace of mind and a competitive edge in a market increasingly focused on compliance and reliability. UKTC’s Experience in EN Testing Projects The transition from BS 476-20 to EN 1363-1 and EN 1363-2 is a clear indicator of the industry's move towards more robust, current, and harmonised standards. While this shift may present initial challenges, it is a necessary step in ensuring that fire safety products meet the highest standards of quality and safety. UKTC currently supports a multitude of clients carrying out their EN testing projects. 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 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. 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.

Introduction to BS EN 1365-1:2012 BS EN 1365-1:2012 is a crucial European standard that specifies the method of testing the fire resistance of load-bearing walls, both internal and external. The test measures a wall's ability to resist the spread of fire from one side to another while maintaining its load-bearing capacity. Understanding BS EN 1365-1 Fire Resistance Tests The fire resistance test outlined in EN 1365-1 focuses on several key areas: Loadbearing Capacity(R): The walls ability to maintain a load. This is determined by measuring the vertical deflection of the wall. Insulation: The test evaluates how well the wall insulates and prevents the transmission of heat to the unexposed face. This is determined by measuring the temperature rise of the unexposed face of the wall with thermocouples. Integrity refers to the wall's ability to continue functioning without developing cracks or openings through which flames or hot gases can pass. Application and Scope of BS EN 1365-1 Standard This European standard applies to internal and external load-bearing walls and evaluates fire resistance without perforations such as doors, glazing, or fire-resistant ducts. The effects of these elements need to be separately established if included. The standard is not applicable to non-separating load-bearing walls, which can be tested as columns under EN 1365-4. The fire resistance performance of external walls can be determined under internal or external exposure conditions. These standards are used in conjunction with EN 1363-1:1999. How UKTC can Assist with BS EN 1365-1:2012 Fire Resistance Testing United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) is primed to support you with your fire resistance testing needs as per BS EN 1365-1:2012. Our UKAS-accredited testing laboratory No. 21542, equipped with a state-of-the-art testing furnace, provides rigorous assessments of load-bearing walls for fire resistance, as specified by this standard. Our dedicated experts ensure your product aligns with all stipulated guidelines, offering you a clear route to market. At UKTC, we understand that your time is valuable, which is why we provide market-leading turnaround times without compromising on the rigour or accuracy of our testing processes. Entrust UKTC with your BS EN 1365-1:2012 fire resistance testing requirements. We are committed to assisting you in navigating the complexities of this standard while delivering efficient, reliable testing services that meet the highest industry standards. 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.

At the United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC), we are committed to enhancing the standards of fire doors and fire door sets through third-party certification. This process involves repeated testing by an independent body coupled with an annually audited quality management system. What is Third-Party Certification for Fire Doors? Third-party certification is a thorough process that involves evaluating a fire door's design and performance. Third-party certification schemes use various mechanisms to evidence a product's quality, including Initial Type Testing (ITT), manufacturing process, and quality assurance of procedures and supporting documentation. Key components of third-party certification include: Initial Type Testing Full-sized constructions are subjected to fire tests in accordance with the appropriate fire test standard, such as BS 476: Part 22 or BS EN 1634-1, at a UKAS-accredited test facility. These results are vital to generate the scope of certification. UKTC is a UKAS-accredited testing laboratory No. 21542 able to conduct tests under BS 476: Part 22 or BS EN 1634-1. Factory Production Control (FPC) Inspection Manufacturing companies are independently assessed by their chosen UKAS-accredited product certification body. This ensures consistent management and manufacturing processes for fire door production. The Audit Test Regular scrutiny of the fire door is essential, with periodic testing on standard products to ensure the declared performance can be achieved consistently. Why is Third-Party Certification Essential? Third-party certification brings several benefits: Visibility and Traceability: It offers clear tracking of a fire door's pathway through the construction supply chain. Compliance and Compatibility: It ensures that the original fire certificate and specification can be sourced for compliance checks and replacement of compatible parts. Assurance of Quality: It ensures that fire doors are manufactured or modified to consistent standards. Demystifying Third-Party Certification With third-party certification, fire doors are tested appropriately, and consistent standards are maintained through: Sampling: Products for initial type testing are sampled from the factory to ensure traceability. Initial Type Testing: This determines the fire resistance of a door assembly. Factory Production Control Inspection: This ensures consistency in the manufacture of the fire door. Regular Audit Tests: This ensures that declared performance can be achieved consistently. The Future of Fire Safety through Third-Party Certification Third-party certification is vital in providing traceability and assurance that fire doors are fit for purpose. It aligns with the forthcoming requirements in the Building Safety Bill, promoting greater accountability in every stage of the construction process. At UKTC, we are dedicated to ensuring that third-party certification remains a robust and reliable solution for the construction industry. Contact us to learn how we can help you comply with upcoming legislation and ensure the highest fire safety standards in your building.

We are delighted to announce that after the latest meeting of our Impartiality Committee on Wednesday the 8th of November 2023, Mr Stephen Kerr of Wylie Shanks Architects has agreed to take over the role of Chairman of the Committee. Stephen has 30 years’ experience in the world of architecture and works across an extensive range and value of projects ranging from healthcare to public authority, conservation, education, industrial and residential projects. Stephen routinely acts as an impartial Contract Administrator on construction contracts as well as being professionally bound to act with integrity at all times by his professional Code of Conduct. Therefore, he is well positioned to perform the impartial duties expected from the Committee for which he chairs. Stephen takes over a very important role at UKTC that was held by our previous Chairman Bill McDonagh and, as the business expands, we look forward to the Committee being taken to the next level under his leadership. Welcome to new Committee Member We are also delighted to welcome a new member Mark Milne - Impact Manager at BE-ST to the Committee. Mark has over 20 years' experience in construction and academia, gaining extensive knowledge in product design and evaluation, research, development, materials, manufacturing and testing. Mark is currently an Impact Manager on the MMC team at Built Environment - Smarter Transformation (BE-ST), responsible for the management and delivery of MMC projects, providing expertise, assistance, supervision and guidance to create impact and drive transformational change across the built environment. Mark's wide ranging industry experience is sure to be an asset to the Committee and we look forward to his input. Tribute to our previous Chairman Bill McDonagh Our previous Chairman Bill McDonagh has retired and resigned from his position on our impartiality committee. Bill has given us his wise counsel since the Impartiality Committee was constituted in 2020 in the way only Bill could. His long and distinguished career has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the noble mission of saving lives and in all the various aspects of fire safety management. We have been very privileged to have his valued service and leadership over the past three years. We wish to thank him on behalf of the Committee and send all our very best wishes to both him and his wife for a long, healthy, and happy retirement. Thank you to previous member Stephen Holmes Stephen Holmes has resigned from his position on the Impartiality Committee after three years of service. Stephen has given us his wise counsel since the Impartiality Committee was constituted in 2020. His long career in the construction industry has ensured that we have had invaluable input from this industry perspective to our impartiality processes. We have been very privileged to have his valued service over the past three years. We wish to thank him on behalf of the Committee and send all our very best wishes to him.

Fire safety standards are crucial in shaping the safety parameters within which our buildings and infrastructures operate. Among these standards, the BS EN 1366-4:2021 stands out as an essential regulation focused explicitly on service installations and linear joint seals. Introduction to BS EN 1366-4:2021 BS EN 1366-4:2021 is part of the European standards that assess various service installations' fire resistance. It mainly focuses on the performance of linear joint seals under fire exposure conditions. BS EN 1366-4-2021 supersedes EN 1366-4:2006+A1:2010, which is withdrawn. Withdrawn standards are no longer considered valid, and their use may not meet current safety standards. The Importance of Linear Joint Seals in Fire Safety Linear joint seals play a pivotal role in preventing the spread of fire and smoke through gaps and joints in doors. By adhering to BS EN 1366-4:2021, manufacturers and builders can ensure these seals maintain their integrity during a fire, safeguarding the building's occupants and assets. Key Aspects of the Testing Process In the EN 1366 series, this specific part provides a method for determining how well certain linear joint seals can withstand exposure to fire, considering their intended use. However, it's important to note that this standard doesn't apply to perimeter seals commonly found in curtain walling systems. This standard includes various tests designed to assess the performance of these seals, as outlined in BS EN 1366-4:2021: · No mechanical movement · Mechanical movement It's important to emphasise that these tests don't provide precise quantitative data about parameters such as the rate of smoke or hot gas leakage or the generation of fumes. Instead, they describe the general behavior of the test specimens during the evaluation. This information is included in the test report to provide an overall understanding of the seal's performance. Importantly, this part of the EN 1366 series doesn't address the load-bearing capacity of linear joint seals. It does not provide any information about how the inclusion of these seals may affect the load-carrying capability of the structure or separating elements. The focus is primarily on fire resistance and related factors. These rigorous tests ensure that the seals can withstand extreme conditions and continue to serve their protective purpose. How the BS EN 1366-4:2021 Impacts the Construction Industry Compliance with this standard is not just a matter of regulatory adherence. It's a testament to a building's safety standards. Constructors and architects across the UK rely on this certification to endorse their projects as fire-resistant and safe for occupants. At UKTC, we prioritise the safety and compliance of our clients' products. We are currently accredited by UKAS to carry out BS EN 1366-4:2021 testing, giving our clients a market-leading route to market. In search of a dedicated partner for your testing and certification needs? Contact us at info@uktestcert.com or call us on 01355 433122; our experienced team will be delighted to assist you.

At United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC), our relentless pursuit of excellence in providing robust testing, meticulous inspection, and stringent fire certification solutions has cemented our reputation as a vanguard in the field. Our unwavering goal is to empower our clients to demonstrate their steadfast commitment to safety and strict compliance with all relevant standards and building codes Unparalleled Safety with UKTC's Enhanced Testing Facilities and Expertise Adhering to our esteemed motto, "Trusted to Ensure", our dedication soars beyond mere service delivery. We strive to establish industry standards, promising remarkably swift report turnaround times while maintaining competitive pricing. By incorporating a personalised approach to every project, we aim to strengthen our standing as the premier trusted testing ally within the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) sector. Collaborating with UKTC is not merely a service investment; it's a partnership forged in trust, expertise, and commitment. UKTC's Advanced Testing Facilities Our advanced testing facility symbolises the harmonious blend of cutting-edge testing apparatus and the industry's brightest minds in passive fire protection. UKTC's unwavering commitment is to deliver unparalleled service excellence to our international clients, ensuring global structures adhere to the highest safety and reliability standards. In May 2023, UKTC took a monumental step forward, undergoing a comprehensive laboratory enhancement. This significant upgrade doubled our annual testing capacity to an impressive 500 tests and fortified our standing at the forefront with industry-leading turnaround times. Crucially, this expansion has exponentially boosted our testing efficiency, underlining our ongoing pursuit of excellence and enhanced commitment to client service. The upgrade incorporated a state-of-the-art digital control suite, implementing forefront technology, including SCADA Monitoring and Data Acquisition Software, facilitating the provision of real-time thermal data both for in-person and remotely witnessed fire tests. Expertise and Transparency: The UKTC Team and Oversight Committee Seamless communication stands as one of UKTC's foundational principles. Our organisational structure is precisely designed to promote transparency and accessibility. From our Head of Testing to our Technical Officer, Technical Surveyors, and Technicians, we've instituted a system to ensure that every client can effortlessly engage with the appropriate team member. We eliminate conventional barriers—often dubbed "Gatekeepers"—to ensure no client ever faces impediments in connecting with the right personnel. Moreover, our team, a gathering of the sector's most experienced minds and skilled professionals, positions UKTC as a lighthouse of excellence and expertise within the TIC sector. Entrust your needs to us, and experience the unmatched dedication and proficiency that we bring to every project. Ensuring Speed and Compliance: UKTC's Market-Leading Turnaround Times UKTC is proud to offer industry-leading turnaround times, ensuring that our multitude of customers can confidently navigate a compliant route to market for their product. We deliver majority of test reports within an industry-leading 7 working days. This saves our customers time and money enabling you to get your product to market quicker. In search of a dedicated partner for your testing and certification needs? Contact us at info@uktestcert.com or call us on 01355 433122; our experienced team will be delighted to assist you.

When it comes to building safety, BS 476-21:1987 stands as a paramount standard in the UK construction industry. This crucial guideline prescribes the methodologies for evaluating the fire resistance of essential load-bearing elements in a structure, ensuring that buildings are not just aesthetically pleasing but are built to withstand potential fire threats. What is BS 476-21:1987? The BS 476-21 standard serves as a cornerstone in determining the fire resistance of load-bearing beams, columns, floors, flat roofs, and walls. Notably, beams and columns undergo assessment based on their load-bearing capacity. Conversely, dividing elements like floors, ceilings, and walls are evaluated in terms of three pivotal factors: load-bearing capacity, integrity, and insulation. Overview of the Standard BS 476-21 works in tandem with BS 476-20, which lays out the foundational principles for these assessment methods. BS 476-21 delves into specifics, detailing procedures for determining the fire resistance of load-bearing building elements when exposed to the stipulated heating and pressure conditions as presented in BS 476-20. This standard outlines the requirements for specimen selection and its design, construction, and the conditions under which they're tested. It serves as a comprehensive guide, catering to beams, columns, floors, flat roofs, and walls. Furthermore, while BS 476-21 addresses methods for load-bearing elements with definitive fire resistance, BS 476-23 takes on components contributing to a structure's overall fire resistance. Any modifications made to the methods in BS 476-21, as opposed to BS 476-8, can be found in the preamble to BS 476-20. Products Under BS 476-21 Fire Resistance Testing Various products fall under BS 476-21's fire resistance testing. These include: - Insulated materials such as calcium silicate board, mineral wool board, glass wool board, and the like. - Light fixtures encompassing Downlight, LED light, LED Ceiling light, etc. - Structural components like ceilings, floors, walls, and roofs. Difference between BS 476-21 & BS EN 1365? While both BS 476-21 and the BS EN 1365 series are concerned with the fire resistance of load-bearing elements, they stem from distinct standards systems, one British and the other European, each with its unique scope. BS 476-21 casts a wider net when it comes to addressing load-bearing elements, while the BS EN 1365 series boasts multiple volumes dedicated to various structural components such as floors, roofs, balconies, walkways, stairs, beams, and columns, addressing them individually. This comprehensive approach positions the BS EN 1365 series as the preferred choice. Furthermore, it holds wide recognition across the European Economic Area, rendering it an optimal selection for manufacturers seeking to maximise their product's market potential. 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.