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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.

Published 25 January 2023 The UK government's Department for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities (DLUHC) has launched a consultation seeking to amend certain aspects of Approved Document B (ADB)* of the Building Regulations. The consultation proposes that sprinklers be fitted in new care homes regardless of building height, removing the national classification system for construction products and requiring them to be tested to the British Standard version of the European Standard, and introducing a threshold that residential buildings over 30 meters in height should have two staircases. The consultation also calls for evidence on revisions to paragraphs 10.6 and 10.7 of ADB, which cover materials and products used in the construction of external walls. One of the more contentious proposals within the consultation is to remove the national classification system for construction products, specifically the British Standard 476 series, and replace it with Euroclass fire standards. This move was prompted by concerns raised during the Grenfell Tower Inquiry that the current system has potential flaws and lacks robustness. However, has been the general direction of travel for two decades now. The Euroclass standards have wider recognition and are deemed to be more robust. Andrew Hutchison, Head of Technical Services at UKTC, said: "The proposal has significant technical, commercial and political consequences, as it could see the withdrawal of 15 British Standards". Manufacturers may conclude that this shift away from BS 476 could shorten the lifespan of their current evidence. As a result, manufacturers may be inclined to re-evaluate their testing strategy and consider transitioning to the European test standards to align with their future sales objectives. Planning for this transition now could minimise disruptions in product availability. United Kingdom Testing and Certification is accredited to a whole portfolio of relevant European test methods in addition to the BS 476 series and will continue to offer these services regardless of the outcome of the consultation. The consultation will end on 17 March 2023. Individuals and organisations are encouraged to respond by completing an online survey, which can be found here. *Please note ADB sets out statutory guidance on meeting certain requirements of the Building Regulations, relating to England only.

Published 10 May 2023 United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC), a leading provider of testing and certification services, is now a designated Approved Body pursuant to article 40 of the construction products regulation 2011 (EU) 305/2011. This status enables UKTC to deliver more streamlined, efficient services to customers seeking to bring products to market that require UKCA marking. This status means that UKTC's customers can utilise its services for testing of products that require UKCA marking without witnessing from an approved product certification body. This significantly simplifies the process for customers, facilitating a reduced time to market for their products. In addition, UKTC can now offer BS EN 13501-2 classification for any of the fire resistance test standards currently on its United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) schedule of accreditation . This extension to its services predominantly applies to external fire and smoke resisting doorsets at present. Andrew Hutchison, Head of Technical Services at UKTC, said: "Becoming and Approved Body is a significant milestone for our company. It demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement and pledge to our customers to ensure they can meet all necessary compliance requirements in the most efficient way possible. This status affirms our position as a reliable and progressive partner in the testing and certification landscape." With this designation, UKTC continues to establish itself as a trusted provider of testing and certification services, committed to helping its clients navigate the intricate requirements of product compliance and market readiness. For further information about UKTC's services or the new Approved Body status, please visit us online at www.uktestcert.com

Fire safety is essential in building design and construction, and passive fire testing is crucial in ensuring safety and compliance with building regulations. Central to this process is BS 476 Part 22 - a standard that outlines procedures for testing the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements. In this guide, we delve into the specifics of this standard, from its relevance and scope to the practical aspects of the testing procedures and interpretation of results. An Overview of BS 476 Part 22 The Importance of BS 476 Part 22 BS 476 Part 22 is a pivotal element in the broader framework of building safety standards. It provides a comprehensive method for testing the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements such as doors, shutters, and certain types of ducts and dampers. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers and building professionals ensure that their products can withstand the stringent conditions of a fire, thus contributing to the overall safety of the building and its occupants. Scope of BS 476 Part 22 BS 476 Part 22 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 BS 476 Part20. The test isconducted in line with BS 476 Part20 with regular observations on the behaviour and impact of the specimen material or object; including - but not limited to - the mode of failure in the event of a collapse. The results are recorded in elapsed time to the nearest completed minute, from the commencement of the heating and pressure being impacted through to the failure of the specimen. The test should be conducted by exposing the building element 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. Understanding the BS 476 Part 22 Testing Procedures Testing Equipment The equipment used in the BS 476 Part 22 testing process is designed to simulate the conditions of a real fire. The main component is a furnace capable of reaching the high temperatures of circa 1200 degrees celsius very rapidly. Additionally, temperature-measuring devices ensure that the test conditions meet the specified criteria. Test Procedures The general test procedure begins with placing the test specimen in the furnace. The temperature is then raised according to a predetermined time/temperature curve. Throughout the test, observations are made to assess the specimen's integrity and insulation performance. Criteria for Success The test's success is based on two main parameters: integrity and insulation. Integrity refers to the specimen's ability to prevent the passage of flames and hot gases, while insulation refers to limiting the rise in temperature on the non-exposed face to below-specified levels. Irradiance is also monitored by means of a radiometer in accordance with BS 476-20. Interpretation of BS 476 Part 22 Test Results Understanding Test Report The test report provides a comprehensive overview of the test. It includes the test's duration, the specimen's performance, and records of any occurrences during the test, such as the appearance of cracks or the emission of flaming particles. Evaluating Test Results The test results provide vital information about the fire resistance capabilities of the tested element. A product that meets the criteria for both integrity and insulation is deemed to have passed the test. Failure in either category indicates the product may not provide sufficient fire resistance in a real-life fire scenario. Role of BS 476 Part 22 in Building Regulations and Safety BS 476 Part 22 in Building Regulations The results from BS 476 Part 22 tests are integral to building regulations. They inform the fire safety requirements for different types of buildings and the selection of materials used in construction. Therefore, ensuring compliance with these results is critical to achieving a safe and compliant building. However, there is an ongoing debate within the government as to the removal of BS 476 Part 22 from Approved Document B. Read more here.: https://www.uktestcert.com/post/new-government-consultation-of-approved-document-b Enhancing Fire Safety with BS 476 Part 22 Adherence to BS 476 Part 22 standards helps improve the fire safety of buildings. It provides assurance that the building's non-loadbearing elements will perform as expected in the event of a fire, thereby protecting life and property. Conclusion Understanding and adhering to the BS 476 Part 22 standard is crucial in passive fire testing. This standard not only stipulates the requirements for the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements but also forms a vital part of building regulations and safety standards. Compliance with BS 476 Part 22 helps to ensure that buildings are as safe as possible, capable of withstanding the intensity of a fire and providing invaluable time for occupants to evacuate safely. It provides an in-depth, robust methodology that underpins fire resistance testing for non-loadbearing elements, thus bolstering building safety and resilience. How United Kingdom Testing & Certification (UKTC) can help. United Kingdom Testing and Certification (UKTC) have significant experience classifying non-loadbearing elements such as doors to BS 476 Part 22 at our state-of-the-art fire testing laboratory. We deliver market fire testing and certification services that enable manufacturers of building materials and products to demonstrate compliance with all appropriate international standards, regulatory obligations, and customer expectations. We deliver unparalleled service to our global customer base with industry-leading turnaround times. Are you looking to find out more information? Contact us info@uktestcert.com or call us on 01355 433122; our experienced team will be happy to help.