European testing
A brief overview of the new European system of testing and classification for fire resistance is given on this page. More detailed information on all the tests and the classification systems can be found in information sheets which can be downloaded from the registered users section.
Background to the European approach
There are currently a large number of different tests used across the EU for assessing the reaction to fire and fire resistance performance of construction products. The variation and differences between these existing national tests means that translation or comparison of performance of a product when assessed by different methods is impossible. Additionally these test methods are linked to the relevant national regulatory requirements so pan-European changes are not easy.
Construction Products Directive (CPD)
The practical implementation of the CPD heralds a major change in the placing of construction products on the European market. Under the CPD, products must conform to the relevant European Technical Specification which in turn calls up European tests for fire and other properties. Satisfying these requirements and demonstrating compliance (attesting conformity) allows a manufacturer to CE mark his product.
Before commissioning any testing which may be used in support of CE marking a product, reference must be made to the relevant European Technical Specification, since depending on the level of attestation of conformity (demonstration of compliance) required, sampling by a third party may be required. warringtonfire staff will be able to assist you with this and will determine if this is required.
New European fire test standards
The new European fire test standards (ENs) that have been produced have been adopted, unchanged, as British Standards. This applies to all the other countries in the EU. This means that e.g. the fire resistance standard BS EN 1363-1 will have a technical and editorial equivalence with DIN EN 1363-1 (in Germany) and AF EN 1363-1 (in France).Conflicting existing national standards e.g. the relevant parts of the BS 476 series must be withdrawn or have their scope amended to restrict their use to products other than construction products.
The following new British Standards are now published:
The new European classification system
A European standard has been implemented giving details of fire resistance classification. Classification of fire performance following a fire resistance test is expressed in terms of specific characteristics e.g. R - loadbearing capacity, E - integrity and I - insulation. Additional performance parameters e.g. C - self closing, S - smoke leakage, may also be used.
The classification of a product as a result of a fire resistance test will be included in a classification report, which will be issued separately from the test report. It will be this classification report which will be used in support of fire performance against a product standard, for example for CE marking; or for use in claiming compliance with requirements in AD-B for products or parts of works.
