New and updated technical publications issued by ASFP

Advisory Note 32 covers the Association’s position on the use of BS 476-based fire resistance testing in relation to Eurocode-designed structures. This new Advisory Note considers the relationship between design codes, test methods and the building regulations.

Written just prior to the Government beginning the consultation process on the future of BS 476 test methods, the text provides assurance for projects in the past and the immediate future. Once the outcome of the Government’s consultation procedure on the future use of BS 476-based testing is clear, this text will need reviewing once again.

Advisory Note 31 covers the use of performance smoke seals in active curtain assemblies. This all-new document was produced in response to comments made in the marketplace about the use of smoke seals and whether ‘S’ is the relevant smoke leakage classification.

Legal liability

Advisory Note 1 ‘Fire and Your Legal Liability’ has been updated to reflect changes in legislation. Advisory Note 2 ‘Indicative or Ad-Hoc Testing Essential Information’ has also been updated. This outlines the role of third party certification and the different types of fire tests that can be undertaken, while also providing a definition of each type of test report and, importantly, explaining the validity of each.

Advisory Note 7 realises guidance on horizontal linear gap seals used in curtain walling systems. It recommends that horizontal linear gap seals used in association with curtain walls are only tested to BS EN 1364-4 and that test evidence obtained using BS EN 1366-4 cannot be used to support such an end-use application. The document also notes that test results cover only the type/construction of the spandrel panel(s) used in the testing process.

Advisory Note 22 states the ASFP’s position on compatibility between pipes and acoustic or firestopping seals. This document has been updated to provide recommendations for installing short metal pipes to be connected later in the construction programme and for installing sound and fire stopping products with cPVC pipes.

The Advisory Note recommends using, wherever possible, jointing systems that do not require welding/soldering hot works. It also highlights the problem of the incompatibility of some types of sealant with certain cPVC pipes.

The recommendation is that, where two or more systems come into direct contact, the system owners must obtain written evidence of the pipe system from the manufacturer in order to confirm its compatibility and long-term suitability.

Fabric curtains

Technical Guidance Document 21 covers the UKCA and CE marking of operable fabric curtains, duly highlighting the conformity assessment requirements of active curtains.

Specification of active curtains needs to be checked to see if it comes within the scope of mandatory marking under the Construction Products Regulation, in addition to the requirements of the Machinery Directive.

The document covers the current situation and notes that the Machinery Directive provisions may change since the provisions of the UK Construction Product Regulation are likely to change at some point, probably in 2024. This is simply because the UK Government is likely to pass secondary legislation as a follow-up to the Building Safety Act 2022.

Technical Guidance Document 23 is a new Code of Practice written to assist compliance with the Irish Building Regulations and Building Control Regulations under the Building Control Act 1990 and Fire Safety Management under the Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003.

The Code of Practice provides an overview of relevant legislation and guidance on design and installation considerations.

The ASFP’s library of guidance documents is under constant review, with new publications developed and updated to meet ongoing industry needs.

*For further information visit www.asfp.org.uk