BSI issues updated BS 8524 series on Active Fire Curtain Barriers

BS 8524 remains the leading reference point for the design, specification, testing, application, installation and maintenance of active fire curtain assemblies in the UK.

The series comprises two parts: Part 1 (Product Specifications and Performance Requirements) and Part 2 (Code of Practice for Application, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance). Both parts have been republished for the 2025 iteration.

A major challenge for industry compliance has been the lack of UKAS-accredited third party certification schemes, following the withdrawal of previous bodies in 2023. The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) is pleased to note that UL has now achieved UKAS accreditation to certify products to BS 8524 and is accepting new applications: an important step in supporting consistent and independent verification of product performance.

Debate has continued regarding the interaction between BS 8524-1 and the harmonised European Standard EN 16034, which is also designated in the UK as BS EN 16034. The work conducted in redrafting the BS 8524 series of standards addressed the scope clash and sought to differentiate applications where the different standards are appropriate.

BS 8524 includes unique and more stringent testing requirements – notably cycle and independent ‘hot’ motor testing – that are not covered within EN 16034, except in specific cases such as pedestrian door set applications as installed in Shopping Centres, where the EN standard is a legal requirement.

The revised BS 8524 also references ISO 21524, the new international standard concentrated on fire curtains. This includes updated test methods addressing features such as vision panels, thereby ensuring stronger alignment between UK practice and global standards.

BS 8524-1:2025 – scope and application

BS 8524-1:2025 addresses performance criteria including reliability and durability, fire resistance, smoke containment, force-gauge resistance and the performance of control devices and ancillary equipment.

The British Standard applies to active fire curtain barrier assemblies made of any material and intended to provide fire resistance in most end-use applications. It doesn’t apply to barriers forming part of a building’s structure, theatre/proscenium textile curtains (see BS 5867-1), fabrics for curtains, drapes and blinds (see BS 5867-1 and BS 5867-2), smoke barriers (see BS EN 12101-1) or operable fabric curtains used in retail settings for pedestrian access (see BS EN 16034).

Mike Ward, managing director at the ASFP, commented: “The release of the 2025 versions of the BS 8524 series marks a pivotal moment for the fire safety sector. After a prolonged period of confusion and inconsistency, the industry now has a clear and robust framework for the specification and testing of active fire curtain barriers.”

Ward added: “This update strengthens alignment with international standards, restores a vital third party certification pathway and provides the clarity that manufacturers, installers, regulators and, ultimately, end users have urgently needed. The ASFP strongly welcomes this revision and encourages all stakeholders to adopt and apply the updated requirements without delay.”

*Further information is available online at www.bsigroup.com and www.asfp.org.uk