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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: 1. Loadbearing Capacity(R) : The walls ability to maintain a load. This is determined by measuring the vertical deflection of the wall. 2. 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. 3. 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. 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.

Smoke leakage testing plays a crucial role in assessing door and shutter assemblies, determining smoke leakage rates at ambient temperatures. This test explores the rate of cold air leakage from one side of a door and shutter assembly to the other, effectively representing the passage of smoke during a fire event. Why Is Smoke Leakage Testing Vital? Doors are integral parts of all structures, and with evolving legislation, they are often expected to perform numerous functions within a building. Ensuring the optimal performance of your door set is a vital component of building a safe space. Smoke leakage performance is often a crucial factor in building design and significantly influences the development of a fire strategy. A fire door that impedes the spread of flame but allows the passage of smoke may be deemed unsuitable in many circumstances. Increasingly, regulations globally specify that doors must provide smoke control. The requirement currently relates only to cold or ambient smoke in the UK. However, doors requiring smoke control performance often also need fire-resisting capability and therefore include intumescent seals. These seals expand and seal the door within its frame when subjected to fire temperatures, ensuring the compartment line is not breached. Smoke leakage test evidence is essential if you wish to UKCA/ CE mark your door product to achieve a Sa classification in accordance with EN 13501-2. What to Expect from Smoke Leakage Testing Smoke leakage testing at ambient temperatures utilises a specially designed chamber housing a partition to install the sample. The chamber uses fans to control the pressure exerted. It includes a pressure transducer, a flow meter, and digital displays to record pressure and leakage rates throughout the test. The test determines results based on leakage over the opening element's perimeter length. It is possible to evaluate both positive and negative pressures at ambient temperature by simply reversing the chamber control fan's polarity to demonstrate leakage rates from both directions. United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) Smoke Leakage Testing Services UKTC offers comprehensive smoke leakage testing to BS EN 1634-3, and BS 476-31.1 standards. Equipped with top-tier smoke leakage testing facilities, we conduct tests from our state-of-the-art laboratory. Smoke leakage testing is a critical safety measure that helps determine the effectiveness of your fire doors and shutters in emergencies. It provides insight into the potential for hot or cold airflow through them during fires. Why Choose UKTC for Smoke Leakage Testing? As an integral part of all building safety, doors are required to perform various functions and achieve a satisfactory performance level as part of the overall building outcome. Smoke Leakage testing is a critical aspect of your fire safety testing process. A fire door that successfully halts and reduces the spread of flame but allows a passageway for smoke is inadequate for protecting life during a fire incident. At UKTC, we understand the importance of smoke leakage testing and strive to provide comprehensive and accurate results that adhere to the highest safety standards. We are committed to helping you ensure that your building is equipped with the right fire doors and shutters to protect life and property in the event of a fire. Contact us today for a consultation, and let's work together to make your building safer and more resilient. 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.

Extended Application reports, or EXAPs, have become increasingly important in the evolving landscape of fire safety. These reports present a prediction of performance based on one or more test results, thereby enabling a broader field of application while maintaining or enhancing performance. In this article, we explore the purpose, process, and benefits of EXAP in ensuring fire safety. Understanding EXAP EXAP is an abbreviation for Extended Field of Application. It is an exception in BS EN fire resistance test standards that permits a broader range of approved applications beyond what was tested in the relevant fire test standard. The EXAP reports generated by United Kingdom Testing and Certification cover fire resistance and smoke control for doors, shutters, and openable window assemblies under the BS EN 15269 series. The Need for EXAP EXAP has become increasingly critical in the wake of the Hackitt Report of 2018, which triggered changes to Approved Document B. These changes require that products and systems for fire resistance are tested against BS EN standards, and only extended (EXAP) or direct (DIAP) application rules can be used to extend results. Furthermore, official BS EN 13501-2 classifications should be provided, with all tasks conducted by Approved Bodies. The strict extension rules in an EXAP standard mean that stringent criteria must be met to apply variations to the product, such as increases in size or the use of alternative components. How is EXAP Testing Carried Out? Testing for EXAP adheres to a simple, four-step procedure: 1. Scope Analysis: A scoping exercise is undertaken which reverse engineers a test programme from the desired field of application. 2. Test: Testing must use the appropriate BS EN fire-testing standard. 3. Extend: Test data can be extended to similar applications, but only by a qualified Approved body using the test standard (DIAP) or extended application standard (EXAP). Importantly, this is only permitted where the standards explicitly allow it. 4. Classify: This evidence must be validated and summarised in an official third-party classification report. EXAP and the 'Golden Thread' Upcoming building-safety regulations will soon require a 'golden thread' of building-performance evidence, particularly around fire safety. This calls for an up-to-date, easily accessible, and unbroken thread of information. BS EN and EXAP evidence ensures that fire-safety information is robust, clear, and consistent, facilitating the achievement of the golden thread across the industry. How EXAP Enhances Confidence in Design and Construction EXAPs are an invaluable tool for designers and contractors concerned about liability for poor design and construction, issues with securing insurance, and extended defect liability periods. Compliance with Approved Document B via EXAP testing is a reliable way to mitigate these risks. Conclusion EXAP, or Extended Field of Application reports, are crucial to modern fire safety testing. With their ability to predict performance and extend application scopes, they streamline compliance with fire safety regulations and contribute significantly to the 'golden thread' of building performance evidence. Whether you're a designer, contractor, or a regulatory body, understanding and implementing EXAPs can significantly enhance your fire safety measures and build confidence in your design and construction practices. How UKTC can help in 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 services under BS EN 15269-1, we ensure you meet the stringent requirements of Approved Document B. Contact us today for a consultation, and let's work together to make your building safer and more resilient. 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.

Aligning with Approved Document B and BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 Standards. Timber fire door manufacturers are often challenged over whether fire doors should be fire resistance tested form both sides. This article will discuss the necessity of testing in both orientations, highlighting the relevant sections of Approved Document B and standards such as BS EN 13501-2 and BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018. Background The convention to test timber fire doors by exposing the opening side only has been a long-established practice and is supported by standards BS 476-22:1987 and BS EN 1634-1:2014+A1:2018. The rationale is that the door leaf on the opening side shrinks relative to the closing face which causes the lead edges to bow towards the fire and away from the frame (which is fixed to the supporting construction). This results in a growing gap between the leaf edge and frame that allows the egress of hot gases and flames, ultimately compromising the integrity of the door. When tested in the opposite orientation, the gap between the leaf and frame remains relatively consistent throughout the test normally resulting in better performance. Regulations Despite the industry convention, the requirement to test fire doors from both directions has been included in Approved Document B as far back as the 2000 edition. In fact, the only exception to this is lift landing doors which can be tested from the landing side only. MHCLG Testing In the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire, MHCLG (Now DHLUC) commissioned their own series of fire door tests on both GRP and Timber fire doors. The timber fire door testing comprised of 25 different timber fire doors and were tested from both directions. Whilst on average, exposure on the opening side performed 3 minutes worse relative to exposure on the closing side, almost one fifth of the doors tested performed worse when exposed on the closing side. It was concluded, therefore, that fire doors (regardless of material) should be exposed from both sides, and this has remained a requirement within subsequent editions of Approved Document B and other national building regulations across the UK. How UKTC can help in your testing requirements? At United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC), we prioritise safety and compliance above all else. As the fire safety landscape evolves, so too does our commitment to helping door set manufacturers meet ever-rising expectations and legislative standards. We are always ready to share our knowledge and assist with any queries for your testing requirements. 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.

Dive into a comprehensive analysis comparing the fire safety standards BS EN 13501-1:2018 & BS EN 13501-2:2016. Discover their key differences, the significance of each in building safety, and how UKTC's extensive testing experience can ensure compliance with these standards. An In-Depth Look at BS EN 13501-1:2018: Understanding its Importance in Fire Safety BS EN 13501-1:2018 is the European standard that provides the reaction to fire classification procedure for all construction products, including products incorporated within building elements, with the exception of power, control, and communication cables covered by BS EN 13501-6. This standard categorises these materials' reactions to fire performance based on a series of tests. BS EN-13501 is the fire classification specified in each product standard that enables products to be CE/ UKCA marked. A reaction to fire is a product's response in contributing by its own decomposition to a fire to which it is exposed under specified conditions. This standard supersedes BS EN 13501-1:2007 Its parameters evaluate the ignitability, flame spread, heat release, smoke production, and the propensity for producing flaming droplets or particles. The Essential Test Methods for BS EN 13501-1:2018 Classification To classify in accordance with BS EN 13501-1:2018, a combination of the following tests is required: Test Methods of Reaction to fire performance, In accordance with BS EN 13501-1. BS EN ISO 1182 – Non-combustibility, under specified conditions, of homogenous materials and composite products used in building construction. BS EN ISO 1716 – Heat of Combustion Test (Calorific value) of building materials and products. This method measures the maximum amount of heat that the complete combustion of the sample can produce. This is critical to understanding the potential heat contribution of materials and products to a fire. BS EN 13823 – Single Burning Item(SBI) test measures product's reaction to fire in relation to the spread of a burning flame. It tests parameters such as heat release, lateral flame spread, total smoke production and flaming droplets/particles. BS EN ISO 9239-1 – Radiant Panel Test (flooring only) is used to evaluate the performance of flooring materials in the event of a fire. It assesses the spread of flame along the surface of a product specimen orientated in the horizontal position under specified conditions. BS EN ISO 11925-2 – Single-flame Source test determines the ignitability of products by direct flame impingement under specified conditions. It evaluates the behaviour of building materials when exposed to a small flame. Decoding the Classification System of BS EN 13501-1:2018 The classification is split into three parts to determine the primary classification, the smoke production classification, and the flaming droplet/particle classification. The main classification in the standard 13501-1 compromises seven classification levels for the direct field of application, which range from A1 (Non-combustible) – these materials do not contribute to a fire under the test conditions compared to the lowest performance class F (No Performance determined). Smoke production classification comprises three additional classifications (s1, s2, s3). S1 is the highest level of performance, and S3 is the lowest. Flaming droplet/particle classification comprises three additional classifications (d0, d1, d2). D0 is the highest level of performance, and d2 is the lowest performance rating. For example, a classification of "B-s1,d0" indicates that the material has very limited contribution to fire (B), minimal smoke production (s1), and no flaming droplets or particles (d0). Demystifying BS EN 13501-2:2016: Its Role and Scope in Fire Resistance Tests BS EN 13501-2:2016 is a European standard for fire resistance tests applicable to curtain walling, fire doors and shutters and their closing devices, non-loadbearing walls, and lightweight partition kits, excluding ventilation services. It provides a classification scheme based on integrity, insulation amongst other performance characteristics. This standard evaluates how these components withstand fire exposure while maintaining structural stability, keeping fire and hot gases from passing through and limiting the temperature rise on the unexposed face. This standard supersedes BS EN 13501-2:2007 A Closer Examination of BS EN 1634-1:2014 within the Context of BS EN 13501-2:2016 BS EN 13501-2:2016 has a significantly broad scope, but we are going to focus on BS EN 1634-1:2014 United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) is significantly experienced in conducting tests in accordance with BS EN 1634-1:2014. BS EN 1634-1:2014 sets out the methodology for fire resistance and smoke control tests for these specific building components. This standard aims to determine the ability of a door or shutter assembly (including hardware such as handles, locks, and hinges), openable windows, and other elements to withstand fire exposure under controlled conditions. When conducting these tests, a specimen is subjected to a standard heating regime, and the performance is assessed based on criteria such as integrity (E), insulation (I), and, where relevant, radiation (W) and smoke leakage (S). Integrity (E) refers to the ability of the assembly to prevent the passage of flames and hot gases. Insulation (I) refers to the ability of the assembly to restrict the temperature rise on the unexposed face, while radiation (W) measures the assembly's ability to limit the amount of radiant heat passing through. Finally, smoke leakage (S) is an optional criterion that assesses the ability of the assembly to restrict the passage of smoke at ambient temperature. Experience and Expertise: UKTC’s Leading Role in Fire Safety Testing and Certification United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) have significant experience in classifying fire resistance products to BS EN 13501-2:2016 at our state-of-the-art fire testing laboratory. We deliver market leading fire testing and certification services that enable manufacturers of buildings materials and products to demonstrate compliance with all appropriate international standards, regulatory obligations and customer expectations. We deliver an unparalleled level of service to our global customer base with industry leading turnaround times. Looking to find out more information? Contact info@uktestcert.com or call us on 01355 433122 and our experienced team will be happy to help.

Get ready for an exciting opportunity to learn about the latest in fire safety testing! UKTC is thrilled to announce that it will be joining the line up at The Fire Safety Event at the NEC in Birmingham on April 25th-27th, 2023. Join us at stand 3a/J15 to learn about the latest in fire safety testing. To register for your free VIP pass click here.

The UK Government announced today (9 December), to continue the recognition of CE marking on construction products in England, Scotland and Wales until June 2025. In a Government announcement last month, the CE / UKCA transition deadline was extended for a wide range of products. However, that announcement did not cover construction products. Today’s announcement and extension means that construction products, which fall within the scope of a harmonised/designated standard, being placed on the market in Great Britain can continue to be CE marked until 30 June 2025. This is a change from the previous published date of 1 January 2023, and means that CE marking on relevant products will continue to be acceptable without the accompanying UKCA marking. Northern Ireland will continue to recognise CE marking, but not UKCA marking, due to the Northern Ireland Protocol. Andrew Hutchison, Head of Technical Services at UKTC, said: "Shareholders across the sector are relieved that the UK Government have clarified this matter. "The Construction Products Association and Construction Leadership Council have been instrumental in lobbying the UK Government for an extension to this deadline for some time." For more information, please click here.

Published 28 February 2023 UL, a leading global safety science organization, has identified four best practices for greater safety, governance, and compliance in commercial real estate buildings. These practices are crucial because modern buildings are complex, with diverse materials, and constantly evolving building codes, making it difficult to establish effective safety protocols and achieve regulatory compliance. Unfortunately, high-profile building failures, such as the tragic fire in the Grenfell Tower in London, which claimed the lives of 72 people and left over 300 homeless, and incidents in Opal Tower in Sydney and Neo200 in Melbourne, have led to a decline in trust in safety and compliance protocols. To address this issue, real estate stakeholders can implement the four pillars identified in the Hackitt Review led by Dame Judith Hackitt. These pillars include: Culture of accountability This involves creating a culture of accountability by assigning tasks, verifying actions, and ensuring that responsibilities are clear. Effective communication and tracking mechanisms are necessary to achieve this, and software solutions can be used to streamline the process. Digital records/data Many commercial real estate companies lack visibility across their portfolios of buildings. Digitization of data provides visibility and decision-makers with the insight they need to identify trends, red flags, or deviations. This data includes safety inspections, warranties, tenant complaints, and observations. Third-party testing and certification Third-party testing and certification can help mitigate risk in safety and performance testing of building materials, electrical components, mechanical systems, fire prevention systems, and virtually any items used in buildings. Tenant-centric approach People who live, work, and play in buildings put their trust in them, making a tenant-centric approach critical. Tenants' red flags, safety concerns, or questions should not be ignored or sidelined, but rather incorporated into decision-making processes. By implementing these four pillars, commercial real estate owners and managers can help rebuild trust in a post-Grenfell world. The average of 3.8 million fires causing 443,000 deaths globally per year, with a total loss of $858.9 billion, further emphasises the need for greater attention to safety, compliance, and governance in construction and real estate management.

Are you someone who is interested in pursuing a rewarding career in the testing and certification industry in the United Kingdom? Look no further than United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC). As an Associate Technician at UKTC, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that products and materials meet the required British and European standards for fire resistance. As an Associate Technician at UKTC, you will be responsible for assisting lead technicians and the responsible technical officer in setting up and installing fire resistance tests. This will involve preparing supporting constructions and installing client specimens to be tested. You will work closely with your colleagues to ensure that the testing process runs smoothly, accurately and efficiently. One of the most rewarding aspects of being an Associate Technician at UKTC is the opportunity to be part of an industry that has a positive impact on public safety. By ensuring that products and materials meet the required fire resistance standards, you are helping to prevent accidents and protect people and property. In addition to the important work that you will be doing, there are also many opportunities for career growth and advancement at UKTC. With hard work, dedication and training, you can move up the ranks to become a lead technician or even a technical officer. You will also have the opportunity to attend conferences and industry events to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the testing and certification industry. UKTC is also committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment for all its employees. As an Associate Technician, you will be part of a team that values diversity, encourages open communication and collaboration, and celebrates success. So, if you are someone who enjoys hands-on work, has a keen eye for detail, and is passionate about public safety, then a career as an Associate Technician at UKTC could be just the opportunity you are looking for. Apply today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in the testing and certification industry in the United Kingdom. Discover a range of careers online.

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 2022, we're proud to have conducted over 200 Fire Tests this year, Reduced reporting time by 73% and welcomed 5 new bright minds to our growing team. We were also delighted to welcome 54 New Customers over the year and look forward to continue working with our existing friends, partners and customers alike in 2023. Looking towards January; we have ambitious new plans, expanded 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.

Published 18 January 2023 The purpose of evaluating fire resistance is to examine how a building element reacts to specific heat and pressure conditions. This process quantifies the element's ability to withstand high temperatures by measuring its loadbearing capacity, fire containment (integrity), thermal transmittance (insulation), and other characteristics. Within Great Britain's regulatory frameworks, British Standards and European Normative test methods co-exist as a means of demonstrating compliance. However, it's important to note that European Normatives relating to fire resistance testing have been gradually replacing their British counterparts. Standards are technical specifications defining requirements for products, production processes, services or test-methods. These specifications are voluntary. They are developed by industry and market actors following some basic principles such as consensus, openness, transparency and non-discrimination. Standards ensure interoperability and safety, reduce costs and facilitate companies' integration in the value chain and trade. European Standards European Standards are under the responsibility of the European Standardisation Organisations (CEN, CENELEC, ETSI) and can be used to support EU legislation and policies. Below, is a comprehensive list of European Standards that relate to the fire resistance of building elements. British Standards British Standards are under the responsibility of the national standards body (BSI) and can be used to support UK legislation and policies. Below, is a comprehensive list of British Standards that relate to the fire resistance of building elements.

This British Standard (Part 22) surrounds the methods for determining the fire resistance of non-load bearing elements of construction. The Scope BS476 scope describes the procedures for determining the fire resistance of any non-load bearing elements of the building construction when subjected to heating and pressure conditions specified in BS476:20. The test would be conducted in-line with BS476:20 with regular observations ont he behaviour and impact of the specimen material or object; including - but not limited to - the mode of failure in the event of collapse. The results should be recorded in elapsed time to the nearest minute, from the commencement of the heating and pressure being impacted through to the failure of the specimen with samples thereafter taken from both sides; if the testing is carried or conducted on one side then only one specimen would be taken and rationale clearly stated in the report.