Gunfire specialises in the site application of fire retardant coating systems to protect against the rapid spread of flame.
We have the knowledge and expertise to identify whether existing coatings are suitable for up-grading or whether they need to be completely stripped and a new system applied.
Coating Systems applied include:
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Class 0 - Overcoat system
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Class 0 - Bare surfaces
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Class 1 - Overcoat system
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Class 1 - Bare surfaces
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Intumescent coatings to steelwork
The Legislation
Under the current Building Regulations, Approved Document B states that the walls and ceilings of the common access areas of buildings of multiple occupancy should be finished with materials that exhibit flame retardance. This applies to all multiple occupancy buildings, be they in commercial, public or private use.
The level of flame retardance required is laid down in the Building Regulations and is determined by appropriate independent testing:
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BS 476 Part 7 tests the ability of a material to prevent the spread of flame across its surface, in terms of both extent and rate. The best result is Class 1
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BS 476 Part 6 measures the amount of heat generated by a material when it is burnt under controlled conditions, again in terms of extent and rate (generally speaking the result is either a pass or a fail)
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Class 0 is the highest level of performance achievable and is not defined in the British Standards, but in the Building Regulations as, a material that:
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Gives Class 1 performance when tested to Part 7 AND
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Passes the Part 6 Test
The Building Regulations have generally been interpreted to apply to new build only, unless a material change occurs. However, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires a fire risk assessment to be carried out on such properties. An assessment of the risks presented by the surface finishes present in escape routes and/or communal areas should be an integral part of the fire risk assessment process.
