Learn More About Fire Rated Suspended Ceilings And How They Offer Protection In The Unfortunate Event Of A Fire Breakout

Posted by Daniel Byford on September 2nd, 2022

Spread of Flame and Structural Fire Rating are the two types of fire tests that are typically conducted on ceiling systems in the UK. You might want to consider replacing your old (hazardous) ceilings with something completely new and different like fire rated suspended ceilings because most major brands these days manufacture their ceiling boards in line with current British fire legislation.

According to information released by the UK government, its emergency services reacted to around 38,000 residential fire occurrences between 2017 and 2018, where home fires reportedly resulted in up to 398 fatalities. These statistics are shocking, yet alarming, and a closer examination of the circumstances surrounding some of these house fires reveals a number of instances in which fire safety precautions were not in place.

Why should I consider fire rates suspended ceilings for my home?

First and foremost, for your safety in the unfortunate event of a house fire. A proper fire rating is more common than you would think, and it usually means protection for a half-hour or an hour in case a fire breaks out, which could allow you enough time to escape unharmed. Fire rated suspended ceilings are recommended for settings where fire hazards are more common (including the kitchen area).

Fire-rated suspended ceilings are not an independent product, but rather a combination of materials from the manufacturer, which should be installed by expert ceiling installers according to a set of guidelines. During installation, professional installers use the configurations supplied in the product's fire test, (which should come with a fire test certificate) and they can provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when it comes to your choice of suspended ceiling.

It is important to note that the requirements for fire safety for suspended ceilings may differ, based on the structure where they will be installed, as well as the kind of space available. The UK National Building Codes contain specific standards, but you can also speak with a skilled suspended ceiling installer if you require more information, or have any specific questions relating to fire rated suspended ceilings.

What exactly does fire rated ceilings mean?

Complete fireproof ceiling tiles or ceiling boards do not exist. However, the two most important features of fire rated suspended ceilings are that they do not contribute significantly to the development of a fire or the production of smoke, and they are made in such a way that prevents them from breaking and collapsing during the early stages of a fire when fire rescue efforts and evacuation is still feasible.

The various stages of a fire process are typically simulated during fire testing of fire rated ceilings. In other words, fire sources that are indicative of the beginning and development phases of a fire, are used on surface linings during these fire tests.

Commercial kitchens continue to be at the top of the list when it comes to settings where fire-protective ceiling tiles are required. In the UK, nearly 3,000 building fires in restaurants and bars are reported to the emergency services each year. Cooking equipment seems to be the primary cause of these fires, followed by heating equipment, lighting, and other issues with electrical distribution. The sad truth is that many house fires, or residential fires, are also caused by these problems.

Most of the contemporary suspended ceilings by well-known manufacturers are lighter, more affordable and compliant with fire safety regulations, but they also provide superior acoustics, greater insulation, and an ideal solution to conceal wiring and defects in older ceilings. You may therefore want to consider having fire-rated suspended ceilings installed at your house or place of business for this and many other reasons (including the aesthetic value).

About Us:

Swiftsure Ceilings small independent company that specialises in suspended ceilings, office refurbishment and partitioning. We are located in Bromley but work across central London and the South East regions. We install all types of suspended ceiling systems, and we are known as the partitioning and internal refurbishment specialists. With over 20 years of industry experience, knowledge and skill, we have an excellent repute among our valued customers. We have carried out contracts from as little as a few hundred pounds to hundreds of thousands.  Contact us today to discuss your requirements and arrange a free no-obligation quote and survey. For more information, please visit https://www.swiftsureceilings.co.uk.