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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.