The Transition from BS 476 to EN 1634: What You Need to Know About New Fire Door Safety Standards

In the world of building safety, fire resistance standards play a crucial role in protecting people and property. For many years, BS 476 has been the fire testing standard used in the UK, but a significant shift is underway as it is gradually replaced by the European EN 1634 standard. This transition has implications for manufacturers, contractors, and property owners alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore what these standards mean, why the change is happening, and how it impacts the industry.

Understanding BS 476: The Old Standard

BS 476, introduced in 1987, has long been the standard for fire resistance testing in the UK. It assesses the fire resistance of various building components, such as fire doors, by exposing them to fire scenarios. The test measures how long a doorset can withstand fire exposure from one side, awarding a rating in minutes (e.g., 30, 60 minutes). While BS 476 has been widely accepted and trusted, it is seen as less rigorous when compared to its European counterpart​(UKTC)​ (Professional Builder).

EN 1634: The New Standard

The EN 1634 series, specifically EN 1634-1, is the European equivalent for testing the fire resistance of doors, shutters, and hardware. This standard includes dual-sided fire testing and a more stringent method for controlling the furnace temperature, closely replicating real-life fire conditions​(Professional Builder). Fire doors are rated based on how long they can maintain their integrity and insulation in the event of a fire, with common classifications like E30 (30 minutes of fire resistance) and E60 (60 minutes)​(UKTC)​(BSI Group).

One of the most critical distinctions between BS 476 and EN 1634 is the ability to obtain CE marking (for Europe) or UKCA marking (for the UK), which is essential for products sold in these markets. BS 476 is not recognised for CE or UKCA marking, meaning that products tested only to this standard will lose their fire rating if not re-tested to EN 1634​(Professional Builder)​(Hoppe).

When Does the Change Take Effect?

The shift from BS 476 to EN 1634 has already begun, with a full transition expected by 2029. By then, all fire doors and hardware products will need to be tested to EN 1634 to maintain their certification. For manufacturers, this change means retesting products, which can be costly and time-consuming. Many are already taking steps to ensure their products meet the new standard to avoid delays and disruptions in supply chains​(UKTC)​(Professional Builder).

What Products Does This Affect?

The transition impacts a broad range of products, including:

• Fire doors
• Fire Shutters
• Windows with fire resistance capabilities
• Building hardware like locks, hinges, and panic hardware

Many bespoke and composite fire doors may face challenges in meeting the new standard, especially in heritage buildings, where custom designs are common. These products will need to undergo extensive testing under EN 1634, potentially increasing costs and limiting design flexibility​(Professional Builder).

Summary

The move from BS 476 to EN 1634 reflects a global shift towards stricter fire safety standards, ensuring that buildings are better protected in case of fire. While the transition may bring challenges, especially for manufacturers, it ultimately aims to improve public safety. With the deadline set for 2029, the industry is preparing for a smoother shift to this more reliable and recognized standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between BS 476 and EN 1634?
While both standards test the fire resistance of doors and other components, EN 1634 is considered more rigorous, requiring dual-sided testing and stricter temperature controls. It is also necessary for obtaining CE or UKCA marking​.

2. When will BS 476 be replaced by EN 1634?
The transition is ongoing, with the final switch to EN 1634 expected by 2029. Products tested only to BS 476 will need to be retested.

3. What products are affected by the new standard?
The new standard affects fire doors, shutters, windows, and related building hardware like locks, hinges, and panic devices​.

4. What are E30 and E60 ratings?
These ratings represent the number of minutes a door or shutter can withstand fire while maintaining its integrity. E30 means 30 minutes of fire resistance, and E60 means 60 minutes​.

5. Why is this change happening?
The change is part of broader reforms in fire safety to ensure that fire-resistant products meet stricter and more realistic testing conditions, ultimately protecting lives and property.

By planning ahead and adapting to EN 1634, manufacturers and property owners can ensure compliance and continue to prioritise safety.