EU RESISTANCE TO FIRE TESTS

The harmonised EU Resistance to Fire classification system, EN 13501-2, depends on the selective use of one or more fire tests - see Table below for test standards.

Note:
The EN [European Norm] fire resistance test standard numbers are grouped in families which reflect the application of construction products. The appropriate fire exposure level, as indicated in the classification system information, will determine the test(s) selected. Test requirements are also indicated in the Annex to the Product Standard for the particular type of system under consideration.

Resistance to Fire tests will only be carried out by a recognised Approved Laboratory. The final classification for fire resistance that arises from these tests will be issued by a recognised Notified Body. The test data and classification will be suitable for use in any EU Member State.

Availability of Information

Test standards that are still in the process of adoption are indicated as prEN's, whereas EN's have already been approved and released by CEN - the European Standards body.

In the UK, each EN test standard will be prefixed by BS, since publication will be via the British Standards Institution, BSI - eg, BS EN 1363-1 'Fire resistance tests Part 1: General requirements'.

It should be noted that a fire resistance test is made on a building element of defined size, and in a particular way. To extend the use of data for use on much larger buildings elements, rules for Extended Applications (EXAPs) are often required. The Table below indicates where such rules are likely to apply.

Fire Resistance Test Documents