EN 13501-1: Learn more about the EU fire safety standards

In the construction and materials industry, understanding fire classification standards is essential. For professionals working with wood and wood-based products, the EN 13501-1 standard is a cornerstone in assessing fire performance. This guide delves into the intricacies of EN 13501-1, its relevance to wood coatings, and how it influences safety and compliance in the industry.

Decoding EN 13501-1

The benchmark for fire safety

EN 13501-1 is a European standard that classifies the reaction to fire of construction products, including building elements. It provides a harmonized procedure for determining how materials contribute to fire development and spread, ensuring consistency across the industry.

The Euroclass System

Categorizing fire performance

The standard introduces the Euroclass system, categorizing materials based on their fire performance:

• Class A1 and A2: Non-combustible materials that do not contribute to fire spread.
• Class B: Combustible materials with very limited contribution to fire.
• Class C: Materials with limited contribution to fire.
• Class D: Materials with medium contribution to fire.
• Class E: Materials with high contribution to fire.
• Class F: Materials with no performance determined.

Each class is further refined with additional ratings for smoke production (s1, s2, s3) and flaming droplets/particles (d0, d1, d2), providing a comprehensive understanding of a material's fire behavior.

BS EN 13501-1

The standard BS EN 13501-1 is basically the same as EN 13501-1, it is just the common standard in the UK market.

For architects or manufacturers working across multiple regions, understanding both EN 13501-1 and BS EN 13501-1 is crucial for ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations, whether in the EU or the UK. Particularly in public buildings, where fire safety requirements are stringent, achieving compliance with BS EN 13501-1 is essential. Fire-retardant coatings from us at Teknos provide the necessary protection while preserving the design vision and meeting strict regulatory demands.

The role of fire-retardant coatings

Wood, being a combustible material, requires careful consideration in fire safety. Applying fire-retardant coatings can enhance wood's fire performance, potentially elevating its classification to meet specific safety standards. Understanding EN 13501-1 classifications enables manufacturers and builders to select appropriate coatings that align with regulatory requirements and project needs.

Testing under EN 13501-1

The classification is determined through standardized tests:

• EN ISO 11925-2: Assesses ignitability by exposing the material to a small flame.
• EN 13823 (SBI Test): Evaluates reaction to fire, including heat release and smoke production, when exposed to a single burning item.

These tests collectively provide data on how a material behaves under fire conditions, informing its Euroclass rating.

Choosing the right coating and prioritizing safety

"Selecting the right fire-retardant coating is a must," says Joakim Svensson, Head of Interior, region Scandinavia at Teknos. "It's not just about meeting regulatory standards; it's about ensuring the safety and integrity of the entire structure. Our coatings are designed to enhance wood's fire resistance without compromising its aesthetic and structural qualities."

Navigating the complexities of fire classification standards like EN 13501-1 is essential for anyone involved in construction and material specification. By comprehending these classifications and the role of fire-retardant coatings, professionals can make informed decisions that prioritize safety, compliance, and performance.

For more information on our range of fire-retardant coatings and how they align with EN 13501-1 standards, please contact our technical team or visit our product pages.