What is the difference between BS476 and BS EN 1634?

When it comes to fire resistance testing for construction materials, two standards that often come up are BS476 and BS EN 1634. While both evaluate the performance of materials in case of fire, they have some key differences. In this article, we will explore these differences to help you better understand these standards.

BS476: Evaluating fire resistance

BS476 is a British standard that has been widely used for assessing the fire performance of various building components such as walls, doors, and windows. It evaluates the ability of these materials to withstand fire, heat, and smoke spread. The test criteria include temperature rise, flame propagation, and insulation performance.

BS EN 1634: A European approach

BS EN 1634, on the other hand, is a European standard that provides a harmonized approach to fire resistance testing across European countries. It sets out the requirements and methods for evaluating the fire resistance of doors, shutters, and openable windows. The standard uses a time classification system to determine the duration for which these elements can withstand fire and prevent smoke spread.

The key differences

One of the main differences between BS476 and BS EN 1634 lies in their scope and application. While BS476 covers a broader range of building components, including walls, the focus of BS EN 1634 is primarily on doors, shutters, and openable windows.

Another notable difference is the way fire resistance is classified. BS476 provides fire-resistance ratings based on specific time periods, such as 30 minutes or 60 minutes. In contrast, BS EN 1634 categorizes fire resistance in terms of integrity, insulation, and radiation criteria along with a specified time period.

Furthermore, BS EN 1634 incorporates additional features like smoke control and leakage criteria, which are not assessed in BS476. These extra parameters ensure the safety of occupants by preventing the spread of smoke and toxic gases during a fire.

In conclusion

BS476 and BS EN 1634 are both essential standards for evaluating fire resistance in construction materials. While BS476 focuses on various building components, BS EN 1634 specifically addresses doors, shutters, and openable windows. Their differences lie in the scope of application, classification methods, and additional safety features included. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for architects, engineers, and builders to ensure compliance with the appropriate standard and enhance fire safety in buildings.