BRIDGWATER: Manufacturers have responded well to the introduction of Building Regulations Part B and there is now a range of new products available to help meet the latest fire safety regulations.
The Regulations, which came into force two years ago, specify the provisions that have to be made with regard to fire safety, fire resistance and structural strength of materials.
Part B ensures that a building structure maintains its strength and provides a minimum standard of protection to persons in the event of a fire. It ensures that the materials used in the construction of a building will be able to withstand fire for a time long enough for the evacuation of personnel from the building and to slow the spread of fire to adjacent structures and floors.
Russell Brittain, lighting and electrical buyer at Toolstation, says the fire testing standard, BS EN 476, also makes provisions for the spread of smoke and heat during these rated minutes. During a 30, 60 or 90 minute test, the heat and smoke generated by the fire must not rise above set limits.
The minimum time the material should be able to resist is 30 minutes. Depending on the height of the structure, 60 or 90 minute rating may be required.
Mr Brittain says there are a number of new products to meet the latest fire safety regulations, including a comprehensive range of fire rated downlights that comply with Parts B, C, E and L of Building Regulations together with fire rated seals, foams, putty, hinges and latches to complete the job.
