For the the most up to date treatments for wallcoverings visit https://www.fire-proofing.co.uk/post/the-latest-in-wallcoverings-achieving-class-c-s3-d2-with-bs-en-13501-1-standards
A wedding venue needed fabric wallcoverings to comply with BS 476 Class 2 Surface Spread of Flames, so they contacted us for advice. We provided them with information on the relevant regulations, various testing options, our previous test results, and independent testing houses.
Fire regulations for wallcoverings
BS EN 13501-1
BS EN 13501-1 specifies the tests used to assess the fire performance of materials employed in the construction of buildings. In accordance with Building Regulations, wall linings in common areas must achieve a fire resistance rating of B/s3/d2 or higher.
Class "B" is limited contribution to fire, "s3" substantial smoke, "d2" lots of flaming droplets. These characteristics are tested using the methods outlined in BS EN 13823: 2020 and BS EN ISO 11925-2: 2020.
As the fabrics are to be fixed to an internal wall they must be tested with the substrate they will be used with. Careful consideration should be made to how the fabric is attached. Rockwool and calcium silicate are commonly used as substrates in testing as these have very good fire retardant properties.
BS 476 Part 7
BS 476 Part 7 is a British Standard that outlines the requirements for wallcoverings in terms of fire safety and performance. It is used to determine the fire resistance of a material when exposed to a flame source. This standard is used for the assessment of the fire performance of interior wall and ceiling linings. How far the flame travels laterally is recorded and a class from 1-4 is assigned.
Note: This class system is now replaced by BS EN 13501-1
Testing options
In-house test
We offer a free testing service that can help to decide whether a full test is warranted.
Previous tests
We can provide previous test results using fire retardant products that may satisfy the architect or fire officer requesting the certification.
Independent testing house
If you need to do a test, you should get in touch with a UKAS-Accredited Independent Testing House for advice on what is needed. At present, we provide free sample treatment for these tests.
Wedding venue fabric
We tested the sample in-house for alterations in colour and shrinkage, and an independent testing house carried out a test (below file download) to establish its class.
The fabric was classified as BS 476-7 Class 2 and an appointment was made for fire retardant treatment.
Non-hazardous application
The Orangery could be used after spraying was finished as there were no fumes or odours. Treated fabrics will dry in a few hours in normal room conditions.
Tips:
Provide details of the method by which the fabric is being attached. Is it adhered to a substrate or non-adhered using wooden battens?
A link to the fabric may provide details about the composition, grams per square metre (GSM), and any flame retardant properties.
Contact Us
For more information about fabric fire retardant spraying, visit www.fire-proofing.co.uk. To get a quote, fill out the Get Your Quote form. If you need help right away, call 07970 522475.
About the Author: Adam Sawyer
Adam is an industry expert with over 35 years of experience in textile care and fire retardant treatments. He is the founder of Fireproofing, a company specializing in fire retardant spraying and application services for curtains, fabrics, upholstery, wood, and more. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and safety, Adam has built lasting relationships with clients and established a reputation for excellence in the field. To learn more about Adam and Fireproofing, visit About Us & Our Expert.
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