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.

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.