Building Research Establishment Report (K3)

CI/SfB
1988

Guidelines for the construction of fire-

resisting structural elements

W A Morris, R E H Read and G M E Cooke

BUILDING
RESEARCH
ESTABLISHMENT
Department of the Environment
Building Research Establishment Report

Guidelines for the construction of fire-

resisting structural elements

W A Morris, BA, MSFSE

R E H Read, FRICS,
G M E Cooke, BSc, PhD, CEng, MICE, MlMech E, FlFire E

Department of the Environment

Building Research Establishment
Fire Research Station
Prices for all available
BRE publications can be
obtained from:
BRE Bookshop
Building Research Establishment
Garston, Watford, WD2 7JR
Telephone: 0923 664444

BR 128
ISBN 0 85125 293 1

© Crown copyright 1982, 1988

First published 1982
Reprinted with revisions 1988
Reprinted 1993

Applications to reproduce extracts

from the text of this publication
should be made to the Publications Manager
at the Building Research Establishment
SUMMARY
Results of fire resistance tests carried out on many different types of constructions have
been published by the Fire Research Station, the Timber Research and Development
Association (TRADA) and by the Fire Protection Association (FPA). Much information
is also readily available from manufacturers, trade organisations and specialist
contractors in the fire field. Nevertheless, a need remains for simple generic descriptions
of fire-resisting elements. This report sets down guidelines for the fire resistance of
elements of structure and includes tables of notional periods of fire resistance based on a
consideration of current test data and information.

Recent changes made in the formulation of premixed lightweight plasters and work
completed on the revisions to BS 476: Part 8 and the British Standard Codes of practice
concerning concrete, masonry and timber constructions has necessitated revising both the
text and tables of the 1982 edition which is now withdrawn.

It is intended to revise the tables as new information becomes available.

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors wish to acknowledge the contribution made by Mr F C Adams to the
original report and to the early work concerned with the revision of the fire resistance
tables by the late Mr G J Langdon-Thomas working under contract to FRS.

Figure 1, and extracts from draft BS 5268: Section 4.2, BS 5628: Part 3 and BS 8110:
Part 2, have been reproduced by kind permission of the British Standards Institution.

We are indebted to the West Midlands Fire Service for the use of the cover picture.

Copies of British Standards can be obtained from BSI, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes,
MK14 6LE.

iv
CONTENTS
Page Nos

Summary iii

Acknowledgements iv

Part I
1 Introduction 1

2 Scope 1

3 Fire resistance
3.1 BS 476: Part 8 2
3.2 BS 476: Parts 20 t o 23 5

4 General information
4.1 Materials 6
Aluminium 6
Asbestos 6
Concrete 6
Glass 6
Insulating materials 7
Plasters 7
Steel 7
Timber 7
4.2 Workmanship 7
4.3 Performance expectation 8

5 Elements of construction
5.1 Walls 8
5.2 Floors 8
5.3 Concrete structures 9
5.4 Structural steelwork 10

6 Current trends 11

Part II
Notional periods of fire resistance
Table 1 Masonry construction: solid 15
Table 2 Masonry construction: hollow 16
Table 3 Masonry cavity walls 17
Table 4 Framed internal walls (loadbearing) 19
Table 5 Framed internal walls (non-loadbearing) 19
Table 6 Framed external walls (loadbearing) 21
Table 7 Framed external walls (non-loadbearing) 22
Table 8 Concrete columns 26
Table 9 Concrete beams 27
Table 10 Concrete floors (plain soffit) 28
Table 11 Concrete floors (ribbed open soffit) 29
Table 12 Encased steel columns 31
Table 13 Encased steel beams 32
Table 14 Timber floors 35

References 38

v
 List of illustrations

Figure 1 Standard time-temperature curve, BS 476: Part 8: 1972

Figure 2 Column furnace showing a steel column after test

Figure 3 Concrete wall panel after test in a vertical furnace

Figure 4 Floor furnace showing a timber floor collapsing

Figure 5 Fire resistance criteria

Figure 6 Average spatial temperatures inside fire compartment

Figure 7 Siliceous aggregate concrete column showing degradation under fire conditions

Figure 8 Wired glass at point of failure

Figure 9 Comparison to show depletion of timber joist after test, with ceiling protection removed

Figure 10 Loadbearing block wall at structural failure

Figure 11 Underside of timber joisted floor construction after test, with ceiling protection removed

Figure 12 Reinforced concrete beam after test, showing depletion at arrises and residual deflection with load
removed

Figure 13 Curves showing relationship of section factor and protection to fire resistance

Figure 14 Typical examples of concrete beams, plain soffit floors and ribbed soffit floors

Figure 15 Methods of protection to steel columns and steel beams

vi
PART I

1 INTRODUCTION FRS continues to retain a close interest in fire

Various publications have been produced which give resistance testing and is often involved in advising test
results of fire resistance tests on proprietary and non- sponsors where programmes of tests are involved in
proprietary methods of construction. However, these the expectation that such work will be fed into codes
published results include tests carried out under BS and other authoritative documents. In addition FRS
1 2
476: 1932 , BS 476: Part 1: 1953 , as well as BS 476: actively participates in the work of national and
3
Part 8: 1972 . Prior to the publication by the Fire international technical committees on the
Protection Association (FPA) of collated information development, improvement and harmonisation of fire
on fire resistance tests 4 as part of their series on ‘Fire tests.
Test Results on Building Products’, the results had
related only to tests carried out at the particular 2 SCOPE
laboratory publishing the data 5 , 6 , 7 . The published Tables 1 to 14 in Part II give some examples of
results of tests usually give only brief details of the constructions which provide notional periods of fire
constructions involved and it is therefore necessary to resistance. However, the materials and constructions
obtain full information on a particular form of specified are limited to a selection of those which can
construction in order to ensure that the tested be described generically and therefore they should not
construction is reproduced in practice (or that an prejudice the acceptance of any other method of
authoritative assessment is obtained on the effect of construction or form of protection which has been
any deviations from tested constructions). Much substantiated by test under BS 476: Part 8 (or its
information is also readily available from revision — Parts 20 to 239) or which has been assessed
manufacturers, trade organisations and specialist as adequate by a competent authority or person.
contractors who prepare information on products and Other satisfactory forms of construction may be
systems of interest to them. found in relevant British Standard Codes of practice.

The Fire Research Station (FRS) has participated in Some parts of the tabulated data have been taken
the preparation of more general data on different directly from published information, or information
forms of construction for various codes and in in the course of preparation, ie
connection with building regulations 8 . These
generalised data tend to be formulated at different Masonry construction from BS 5628: Part 3 10 ;
times and by committees having different interests — Loadbearing timber framed and joisted constructions
leading to some differences in the information from BS 5268: Part 4: Section 4.2 11 ;
produced. This report has been prepared to Concrete structures from BS 8110: Part 2: 1985 12
consolidate existing data, to extend it with new
information where possible and to provide guidance BS 476: Part 8 and its revision provide for the
on the practical application of the data. It also draws determination of fire resistance of a wider range of
attention to the major factors which can influence the elements than included in this report, namely — walls,
behaviour of fire protecting materials and to the need partitions, floors, columns and beams. For instance,
to pay attention to those features of construction glazed constructions have been excluded and it has
which exercise influence on the effectiveness of the not been considered possible yet to include fire
protection system. protecting suspended ceilings, doors and shutters in
tables of generic description. Examples of
FRS was set up in 1947 under the auspices of the constructional specifications for doors have been
Joint Fire Research Organization (JFRO), a published by the Fire Offices’ Committee (FOC)13 .
partnership between Government and the UK fire Further examples are to form the subject of a future
insurance industry. Until 1976 FRS functioned as a BSI publication 1 4 .
research and testing organisation and undertook a
large number of standard fire resistance tests on Staircases are not included under the provisions of the
behalf of industrial sponsors, but in that year standard method of test and at present there is no test
(following a policy decision that government research furnace specifically designed for their evaluation.
stations should no longer undertake routine standard However, staircases may be required in some instances
testing) JFRO was disbanded. Standard fire tests are to be constructed to achieve a minimum period of fire
now carried out at a number of independent resistance, eg where providing a fire separating
laboratories — most of which participate in the function. There is no reason in principle why the basic
scheme* administered by the National Measurement fire resistance data for steel, concrete and timber
Accreditation Service (NAMAS). constructions should not be used in their design.

*formerly operated by the National Testing Laboratory

Accreditation Scheme (NATLAS)

1
 1200

1100

1000

900

800

Temperature rise- °C
700

600

500

400

300

200

100
F i g u r e 1 Standard time-temperature curve,
0
BS 416: Part 8: 1972 60 120 180 240 300 360

Time-min

This report This standard has recently been revised and reissued
— provides some general information on fixing as BS 476: Parts 20 to 23 which are now being used
methods but the authors would like to stress that the by the fire test laboratories. Differences between Part
manufacturer’s fixing instructions should be followed, 8 and Parts 20 to 23 are discussed in 3.2.
where greater detail is to be found.
— is not necessarily a code of good practice for
3.1 BS 476: Part 8
design. For example, the fact that the fire resistance The test furnaces are controlled to provide, within
of single leaf brickwork 75 mm brick on edge is defined limits, measured temperatures close to the
included, should not lead the designer to suppose that exposed face of the specimen increasing by 821°C
it is necessarily good practice for other reasons to after 30 minutes and 1133°C after 240 minutes (see
build tall slender walls of this construction. This note Figure 1). The normal practice in testing is to subject
of caution also applies generally, in that where a free standing columns to heating on all faces, and
possible choice exists for the construction of an walls and floors on one face only — which in the case
element of structure for a given period of fire of floors is from the underside (see Figures 2-4).
resistance, consideration should be given to the Nevertheless, the procedure can be modified to assess
probable effects of mechanical damage, weathering, elements with limited exposure only (eg a column built
thermal movement, etc. into a wall). Test specimens are full size if possible, or
a representative* portion of the following dimensions:
3 FIRE RESISTANCE
The property of ‘fire resistance’ is often regarded as Walls, partitions, doors and
the ability of an element of building construction to glazed constructions 2.5 m x 2.5 m
fulfil its designed function in the event of fire. This Floors and flat roofs 2.5 m wide x 4 m span
function may be to contain a fire (as with a non- Protecting suspended ceilings 2.5m x 4m
loadbearing wall), or to support the design load (as Columns 3 m high
with a beam or column), or both (as with a floor). Beams 4 m span
Fire resistance in the context of this report is the time
for which a representative test specimen would satisfy These dimensions are specified in the standard, but
the applicable criteria and is defined accordingly in BS larger specimens may be tested where the furnace size
4422: Part 1 15 . permits.

*For example, the specimen shall include at least one of each type
The majority of fire resistance data used in compiling of joint, and the method of fixing and supporting the components,
this report have been obtained using BS 476: Part 8. the finishes and workmanship used shall be as intended in service.

2
Figure 2 Column furnace showing a steel column after test Figure 3 Concrete wall panel after test in a vertical furnace

Figure 4 Floor furnace showing a timber floor collapsing

3
Stability Integrity Insulation

No collapse or excessive deflection No gaps No excessive

heat transfer

Stability failure Integrity failure Insulation failure

Figure 5 Fire resistance criteria

The criteria (Figure 5) of fire resistance are: Regulations or supporting guidance documents specify
the minimum periods of fire resistance necessary in
Stability*: resistance to collapse (for floors and beams defined situations. Although BS 476: Part 8 indicates
allowable vertical deflection is limited to 1/30 span + ). which criteria are appropriate for the different types
of element, these documents also specify situations
Integrity: resistance to penetration of flame or hot where all criteria are not required, where the duration
gases which can ignite a cotton wool pad ≠ . (Where the for each criterion is not identical and where the
cotton wool test cannot be used because of the high element is not expected to perform equally from both
level of radiation, then failure is deemed to have sides.
occurred if a crack or fissure exists or develops
exceeding 6 mm in width by 1.50 mm in length). Those concerned with the design, construction and
approval of structural fire protection methods should
Insulation: resistance to excessive temperature rise on be aware that it is important not to deviate from the
the unexposed face (ie an increase of more than tested design as relatively minor modifications could
140°C (mean) above the initial temperature, or by have a significant effect on the fire performance. The
more than 180°C at any point). design should, therefore, not be adapted to include
features which have not been tested or assessed. Care
However, it should be noted that loadbearing must be exercised in ensuring that the assembly of fire
members are required to support the test load not protection systems does not leave (or give rise to)
only during the prescribed heating period but also inherent weaknesses and this is particularly important
twenty four hours after the end of the heating period. where differing systems are being joined together.
Should collapse occur during heating or during Examples could be where a sprayed material
subsequent loading, the notional maximum period for protecting structural steel is being used in combination
stability for such a specimen is taken as eighty per with a board material, since water from the spray
cent of the time to collapse (or of the duration of could severely affect the fire properties of the board,
heating). or, in the case of a fire protecting ceiling, where
recessed light fittings are introduced without due
The standard encourages loading and restraint of regard to the effects on the grid and heat transfer into
specimens to be as found in practice. Unless these the cavity under fire conditions.
conditions can be specified and realised, simplified
edge conditions are adopted in the fire test. Columns Standard tests for fire resistance are usually conducted
are subjected to axial loading, beams and floors to on single building elements where it is not feasible to
multipoint loads to simulate a uniformly distributed reproduce in the test furnace the nature and
load, and loadbearing walls to a load applied through magnitude of restraint and continuity of the adjoining
a ‘bridge’ (or at multipoints) to simulate the effects of construction. As an example, a beam is usually tested
uniformly distributed loading. Walls are not in a simply supported condition, whereas in the
restrained at the vertical edges and floors normally building bending moments and other forces may be
have no contribution from end restraint and present which could alter the fire resistance properties.
continuity. In some cases therefore the fire performance of
structural elements in the building could be expected
to be greater than that of the simple element when
*The criterion of stability is applied to both loadbearing and non-
tested in the furnace. In other cases, thermal
loadbearing constructions, but interpretation is not the same.
+
Amended in 1985 to 1 /20 span or rate of deflection. movement can reduce the fire resistance. These
≠ aspects therefore need careful consideration. It should
From 1985, loss of integrity is also deemed to have occurred if
sustained flaming exists for at least 10s on the unexposed face. be noted, however, that the scope of BS 476: Part 8

4
 Standard curve BS476

1200
Average temperature - °C

1000

800

600 60(¼)

60(½)
400
30(¼)
30(½)
15(¼)
200 15(½)
7.5(¼)
7.5(½)

0
10 20 30 40 50 60

Time-min

Numbers against curves = fire load kg/m2 Figure 6 Average spatial temperatures inside
Fractions in brackets = ventilation as proportion of wall fire compartment

permits evaluation of complex systems. Standard fire test are provided in–
tests provide comparative methods of assessment Part 21 – for loadbearing elements, ie beams,
under similar conditions and the performance in these columns, floors, flat roofs and walls;
tests does not imply the ability to withstand an actual Part 22 – for non-loadbearing elements, ie partitions,
fire for an identical period. The standard doorsets and vertical shutter assemblies,
time/temperature curve corresponds to a severe fire ceiling membranes and glazed constructions;
but not the severest possible fire; real fire and
time/temperature curves vary widely depending Part 23 – for components such as suspended
mainly upon fire load density and ventilation ceilings protecting steel beams and
conditions (Figure 6). Furthermore, the total heat intumescent seals for use in conjunction with
transfer into a building element involved in a fire is single acting latched timber fire-resisting door
dependent upon the heat flux it receives and there are assemblies.
differences in the radiative component of heat transfer
in the furnace test vis-a-vis real fires16. Thus it is The main changes that have been introduced are:
impossible to test materials and constructions under
the wide range of real fire conditions and it is Time temperature curve: is now specified with respect
common international practice to aim for a standard to temperature, rather than temperature rise.
and reproducible set of test conditions so that the
performance of different materials and constructions Specimens: to be full size if possible, or to have the
can be judged on the same basis. following minimum dimensions –

Normal calculations and tests for the fire resistance of Separating elements* vertical 3 m high x 3 m wide
structural elements are carried out assuming that the horizontal 4 m span x 3 m wide
maximum load levels allowed in current codes of
practice are achieved. If the effective safety factors Non-separating elements vertical 3 m high
for the structure are increased by reducing the load horizontal 4 m span
level, improvements in fire resistance can be expected.

*Elements required to satisfy the criteria of integrity and insulation

3.2 BS 476: Parts 20 to 23 (in addition to loadbearing capacity if applicable) for the purposes
These standards constitute a complete revision of BS of maintaining separation between two adjacent areas of a building
476: Part 8. In conjunction with P a r t 20, m e t h o d s o f in the event of fire.

5
Figure 7 Siliceous aggregate concrete column showing Figure 8 Wired glass at point of failure
degradation under fire conditions

Criteria: softening occurs at relatively low temperatures. The

Stability. This has been replaced by ‘loadbearing melting point for pure aluminium is 660°C but may
capacity’ which is applicable only to loadbearing reduce to 600°C for alum alloys.
elements.
Asbestos: since first publication of the tables of
Integrity. Where the cotton pad test is not suitable, notional fire resistance in Part II, asbestos insulating
gap gauges are specified. board has been withdrawn from the market. Although
the industry has produced asbestos-free alternatives,
Pressure conditions: The furnace is now required to these have not been included because of the difficulty
operate under positive pressure for all tests – whether of providing a generic description. It should not be
or not the element under test performs a ‘separating’ assumed that the thicknesses quoted in this report for
or ‘non-separating’ function. asbestos insulating board are adequate for these
alternative products, and advice in the first instance
4 GENERAL INFORMATION should therefore be sought from the manufacturers
Fire resistance relates to an element of construction regarding their suitability.
and is not a property of a material; but the properties
of a material will affect the performance of any Concrete: in line with current practice, reference is
element of construction of which it forms part. made only to density instead of to Class 1 and Class 2
Desirable properties which are relevant include aggregates*. The factors which lead to spalling of
dimensional stability, adhesion, cohesion, ability to concrete (see Figure 7) are rapid rates of heating,
resist thermal shock and cracking, and low thermal large compressive stresses and high moisture content.
conductivity. However, the way in which a material is
used, the design of the element of structure and the Glass: where annealed glass is incorporated in the
manner of fixings are all important. The following design of an element of construction it must be
points, which are not treated exhaustively in this accepted that there will be local high heat
report, should be borne in mind when designing for transmission and radiation which cannot be reduced
fire resistance.

*Class I aggregate implied foam slag, pumice, blast-furnace slag,

4.1 Materials
pelleted fly ash, crushed brick and burnt clay products (including
Aluminium: or its alloys, will make only a small expanded clay), well-burnt clinker and crushed limestone; and
contribution to the fire resistance of structures when it Class 2 aggregate implied flint gravel, granite and all crushed
is subjected to the direct action of the fire, since natural stones other than limestone.

6
by increasing the thickness of the glass for all
practical purposes. In this respect annealed flat glass
is not able to satisfy the insulation criterion for more
than a few minutes, whereas some glass blocks can do
so for up to 15 minutes.

The types of glass traditionally used in fire-resisting

constructions are (a) wired glass (see Figure 8), and
(b) non-wired annealed glass forming ‘copper-lights’
or small vision panels in doors. However, in recent
years alternative non-wired glass products have been
introduced, some of which are able to satisfy the
insulation criterion. Guidance on the fire performance
of glass is given in PD 6512: Part 3: 198717.

Insulating materials: manufactured from glasswool,

slagwool or rock fibre, where used in cavity
constructions, need to be so fitted that they are
retained in place for as long as their contribution is
necessary.

The use of cavity insulation within fire-resisting walls

and floors may afford (in appropriate circumstances)
protection to both the structural members and the
unexposed face so that the overall performance of the
element is maximised.

Low density flexible insulating materials

manufactured from glass fuse at relatively low
Figure 9 Comparision to show depletion of timber joist after test,
temperatures compared with those manufactured from with ceiling protection removed
some other materials. Hence, in situations where
cavity insulation is expected to become directly
exposed for significant periods, glass-based products Timber: has a low thermal expansion which minimises
may not afford protection for the required period. the possibility of charred material or other protective
layers becoming displaced. It also has a low thermal
Plasters: the term lightweight gypsum plaster covers conductivity which means that undamaged timber
retarded hemi-hydrate gypsum mixes with perlite, immediately below the charred layer retains its
vermiculite, or a mixture of both with certain rust strength. As a general rule it may be assumed that
inhibitors. The plasters have differing applications in timber will char at a constant rate when subjected to
terms of forms of construction and the choice is the standard heating conditions of the furnace. The
determined by factors such as suction of the base. For rate of reduction in size of structural timber can be
use with expanded steel lath, the specially formulated taken as 15 mm to 25 mm (depending on species) in
metal lathing grade must be used. These lightweight thirty minutes for each face exposed: but different
plaster mixes are covered by BS 1191: Part 2: 1973 18 . rates apply where all faces are exposed 19 , (see Figure
9).
Steel: The fire resistance of a steel member depends
upon the section dimensions and the temperature at The undamaged timber can be assessed for structural
which it becomes unable to support the applied load stability using the design guidance in BS 5268: Part
(limiting temperature). The limiting temperature varies 2 20 , in conjunction with stress modification factors.
according to the applied load and the temperature
profile in the cross-section. 4.2 Workmanship
The objectives of building regulations and codes of
Steel has a high thermal expansion coefficient which practice and of building designers to achieve buildings
can lead to a redistribution of stress and thermal which are fire-resisting, will be lost if good
movement in other parts of the structure which may workmanship in the factory or on site is not achieved.
cause loss of integrity and stability. Where steel Good quality control is important in the use of
components are used in separating constructions, the materials and composites, their assembly and
high thermal conductivity can lead to local high juxtaposition, but it becomes more important perhaps
temperatures on the unheated side, thus leading to with those fire protecting materials which can be
failure of the insulation criterion even though integrity applied by unskilled labour. Education in the needs of
and stability may continue to be satisfied. quality control must start with the Architect on each

7
 4.3 Performance expectation
This guide is limited in scope to new constructions
and tests performed on them. Designers should
therefore give consideration to the life expectancy of a
construction when assessing its suitability for use. For
example, lath and plaster constructions will not
provide the anticipated period of fire resistance unless
the bond is satisfactory. Similarly, few constructions
will retain their full fire resistance when the surface
has been damaged by impact.

5 ELEMENTS OF CONSTRUCTION
5.1 Walls
The tabulated data for brick and block construction
(Figure 10) have been based on BS 5628: Part 3:
1985 10 , and the loadbearing timber stud constructions
on the recommendations contained in draft BS 5268:
Section 4.2 11 .

No general guidance can be given at the present time

for loadbearing steel-framed constructions which rely
on cladding or membrane protection, and any such
system would be required to be evaluated by test, or
by assessment in some cases. It must not be assumed
that encasement systems adequate for columns and
beams could be used as membrane construction
Figure 10 Loadbearing block wall at structural failure
spanning across columns.

new project. Indication must be given (through the The preference for thin walled channel sections as
drawings, specification and contract conditions) to the steel studs for partitioning (rather than heavier steel
Resident Engineer, Site Agent and importantly, the sections) is because the lightweight studs may undergo
actual person applying the fire protection, of those local buckling without disrupting the unexposed
parts of the building and its elements which need the lining, as may happen when heavier sections bow. It
appropriate measure of fire resistance. should be remembered that where external walls are
not close to the site boundary and therefore need to
Although various details are specified in the tables, provide protection only from the inside with limited
the recommended trade practice should always apply compliance in terms of insulation, satisfactory forms
in respect of minimal backing to board materials, of construction will be significantly different from
edge clearance of nails, etc. walls required to satisfy all criteria for the full period
of fire resistance. Therefore specifications given in
Screws or nails for fixing non-combustible facings to Tables 6.1 and 7.1 are not appropriate elsewhere.
timber supports, especially in ceilings, may pull out
prematurely because of heat transfer through the
Designs are emerging for very tall fire walls in single
screw or nail and consequent charring of the timber
storey storage buildings. It should be remembered that
around them unless they are long enough and suitably
structural materials such as concrete, brick and steel
spaced. For fire resistance periods in excess of one
undergo thermal bowing when heated on one side.
hour, it has sometimes been found necessary to
Such bowing can endanger the stability of tall
provide additional fixing methods. Where damage is
constructions and steps should be taken to mitigate
likely to occur to timber substructures, then it is
the effects 21.22 .
desirable to provide non-combustible grounds or
fillets fixed to the substructure. Screws have a greater
resistance to withdrawal than nails and are preferred. 5.2 Floors
The tables for timber floors have been based on the
Whilst the thickness of protection for structural steel recommendations contained in draft BS 5268: Part 4:
may be adequate for the purposes of maintaining the Section 4.2 11 .
steel below collapse temperatures, due consideration
must be given to the effects of the encasement The method of test for floors is by exposure of the
dimensions and special reinforcing components, or underside. In the case of floor constructions utilising
additional fixings may be needed to prevent premature a ceiling membrane to contribute to the overall fire
disruption of the encasement. Advice on this can resistance, such a membrane may be performing a
generally be sought from the manufacturers. number of functions. For example –

8
Figure 11 Underside of timber joisted floor construction after test, with ceiling protection removed

(a) protection to structural members (beams or joists) The fire resistance of a reinforced concrete structure is
only, influenced, to a large extent, by (a) the overall
(b) prevention of fire penetration through the thickness of the section in order to keep heat transfer
flooring, or through the floor or wall within acceptable limits, and
(c) both (a) and (b). (b) the protective concrete cover to the reinforcement
or tendons. The tendency of concrete to spa11 (or
break up) in a fire can lead to loss of protective
Once the ceiling has been penetrated, the beams/joists
(insulating) covering to the steel and reduction in
and the underside of the floor boarding become
overall thickness of concrete; in some constructions
exposed to fire (see Figure 11). Although the fire
measures will be necessary to reduce these effects (see
resistance of an element of construction applies to the
Figure 12), particularly where the thickness of the
complete assembly, the stability of any individual
cover exceeds 40 mm for dense concrete and 50 mm
member supporting the floor must be considered.
for lightweight concrete.
Square-edged floor boarding contributes little to the
fire integrity of a floor and therefore the overall time
The nature of the aggregate used is also significant in
for compliance with integrity and insulation of the
that the overall thickness and cover is determined by
floor is effectively the collapse time of the ceiling.
the properties of the aggregate used. For example,
Tongued and grooved boarded flooring (or similar)
expanded pulverised fuel ash has a low thermal
can contribute to integrity and insulation (eg up to say
conductivity and coefficient of thermal expansion and
10 minutes when the floor is well laid).
is resistant to spalling, which will enable thickness and
cover reduction to be made without lowering the fire
It is possible to increase the fire resistance of floors resistance.
by certain types of suspended ceiling systems but care
is necessary to ensure that the ceiling system selected The tabulated data relate to the steel reinforcement
is appropriate for the particular needs. Many fire retaining a proportion of its strength at high
protecting suspended ceilings have been tested to temperatures; the data are based on the reinforcing
assess the protection they can give to steel beams and bars and prestressing tendons retaining roughly fifty
the criteria by which they have been assessed may not per cent of their ambient strength at 550°C and 450°C
be appropriate for consideration of their contribution respectively. For steels with other strength
towards the overall fire resistance of floor characteristics an appropriate adjustment in cover will
constructions. Where such ceilings are appropriate, it be needed.
should be noted that as they are the means by which
the fire resistance of the complete element of If any dimension of a particular construction is less
construction is attained the term ‘fire resistance’ than the minimum specified in the tables and it is not
therefore cannot be applied to the ceiling alone. possible or desirable to increase it to meet the
tabulated requirements, the fire resistance may be
5.3 Concrete structures enhanced by the application of a protective coating,
The tabulated data for concrete structures has been system or membrane. Direct application of plaster or
taken from BS 8110: Part 2: 1987 12 . sprayed fibrous material, or the provision of a fire

9
Figure 12 Reinforced concrete beam after test, showing depletion at arrises and residual deflection
with load removed

protecting ceiling under the floor, are some of the important and for a given material there are optima
ways in which improvements can be made. It is for the various periods of fire resistance. The material
important to ensure adhesion of the coating where it producers and the recognised specialist spraying
is directly applied. In the case of plaster protection, contractors are able to provide the necessary
adequate key and bond may have to be provided by information regarding recommended thicknesses based
combing the surface of the concrete but this will on fire resistance test data and assessment.
depend on the plaster type used. Coatings more than
nominally 15 mm thick require mechanical retention Proprietary methods of affording protection to steel
and this can take the form of wire mesh suitably fixed beams and columns have been published by the
back to the concrete. Association of Structural Fire Protection Contractors
and Manufacturers 2 5 .
Additional information on the fire resistance of
concrete is given elsewhere 12,23,24 . Other less conventional methods, including water
cooling of hollow steel sections and flame shields are
5.4 Structural steelwork reviewed elsewhere 26,27 .
5.4.1 The methods of fire protecting steel beams and
columns given in Tables 12 and 13 are confined to 5.4.2 The rate at which a steel section heats up in a
passive encasement systems. The protection media fire depends mainly on the ratio of heat received by
referred to in the tables are those which can be the section to its thermal capacity or, put another
referred to in a generic manner and therefore way, the ratio of the fire exposed perimeter (Hp) to
represent materials and forms of construction which the cross-section area (A). This ratio is termed
can be installed by the main contractor, whereas ‘section factor’ in draft BS 5950: Part 8 28 . The lower
proprietary methods (including those which require the value of Hp/A* the higher the fire resistance
the services of a specialist sub-contractor) have been (Figure 13). Hence fire resistance depends upon the
excluded. Any attempt to include proprietary methods Hp/A ratio, the applied load level and the
within a broad generic description could in fact lead temperature profile in the cross section. The method
to the possible uncontrolled use of untested products. of test normally adopted for steel beams utilises a
dense aggregate concrete slab above to simulate a
In the preparation of the tables it has been found section of a floor thereby giving protection to the
both difficult and undesirable to include specifications upper surface of the top flange. Where in practice a
relating to sprayed fire protection, eg mineral fibre floor slab is omitted, adjustments in the protection
insulating material and vermiculite cement. technique are necessary to cater for fire exposure on
Differences between the available range of products all sides and the thickness of protection may need to
within a particular generic description produce large be increased.
variations in the thickness of protection needed for a
particular steel section – the differences in The I-section sizes currently suggested for loaded
performance may be attributable to the differences in beam and column tests are:
the properties of the proprietary materials used
(binder and density to name but two). Density and
thickness of protective media are both equally *previously referred to as U/F or P/A.

10
 Where the protection system utilises differing
protection materials such as plaster on plasterboard,
increasing the thickness of one component may not
necessarily result in improved performance for light
Protected steel steel sections. Considerable care is required in
applying the results of calculations and in the absence
Steel temperatu re rise

of direct test data, alternative protection systems

should be considered.

5.4.3 To satisfy the criterion of stability/loadbearing

capacity, a loaded steel section may need to be
Unprotected steel insulated to ensure that the limiting temperature is not
exceeded during the fire resistance test period – due
consideration being given to the way in which
continuity, restraint, etc may affect this value.

For many years the load to be applied to a steel beam

or column in a fire resistance test was calculated
according to BS 449: Part 2 30 which is based on elastic
Hp/A behaviour. With the recent introduction of the limit
state code (BS 5950: Part 1 31 ) the basis for calculating
Figure 13 Curves showing relationship of section factor and
protection to fire resistance loads has changed.

Where tests under load are not carried out and

judgement is based solely on the attainment of
limiting temperature, consideration needs to be given
to the important thermal properties of the protective
columns ~ 203 m m x 203 m m x 52 k g / m
media, as well as to the ability of the protection to
beams ~ 305 m m x 127 m m x 42 k g / m remain in position under the conditions of flexure
(board or spray protection) often present in loaded tests. The current procedure is
406 m m x 178 m m x 60 k g / m
to base assessment on a programme of tests which can
(intumescent protection)
explore and quantify both of these important aspects
of the media, as well as giving coverage to a range of
The data given in Tables 12 and 13 for the protection
section sizes 32 .
of structural steel are applicable to the current section
sizes and modifications have been made to data for Tables 12 and 13 have limited application in that the
sections used in earlier testing practice. thicknesses of media are appropriate to the specified
steel section. The use of computational methods of
The Hp/A ratio for the 203 mm x 203 mm x 52 assessment permits some attempt to introduce
kg/m columns exposed on 4 sides is 125 m -l for flexibility and broadens the scope of use in protection
boxed encasement and 180 m -l for profile encasement. systems without the need for extensive testing. With
Similarly, the 305 mm x 127 mm x 42 kg/m beams site-applied finishes, adjustment is relatively easy but
exposed on 3 sides have Hp/A ratios of 140 m -l and in the case of board encasements available in a limited
180 m -l for box and profile forms of encasement thickness range, over protection in some cases is
respectively. For a steel section which has an Hp/A unavoidable.
ratio smaller than that given in tables 12 and 13, the
thickness of protection given will often be more than 6 CURRENT TRENDS
the minimum necessary (and vice versa). The thickness of materials for the protection of
structural steelwork in Tables 12 and 13 (as with
There are a number of computational techniques previous tables) relates solely to a particular column
available which can give guidance on thickness related and beam section. In order to provide design
to fire resistance times and section property. One such information for the protection of a range of steel
method is contained in ECCS recommendations 2 9 . The section sizes, FRS in conjunction with industry and
accuracy in such methods relates to the accuracy and the test laboratories has developed a programme of
frequency of input data. Where the computed fire resistance tests designed to provide a
thickness exceeds the maximum quoted in the tables computational method of assessment for the thickness
for the particular material or system, further evidence of insulation for any I section. Methods have also
may be necessary to show that the increased thickness been developed for castellated beams and tube
can remain in position around the steel section for the sections. As the competitive position of structural
specified period. For some materials this aspect of steel is sensitive to the amount of protection required
material retention may be more critical than precision for fire purposes, there is considerable incentive for
in thickness for insulation purposes. showing that less, or even no, protection in some

11
applications can be used without loss of structural
safety. Collaborative work by the British Steel
Corporation and FRS has shown 3 3 that bare steel
I-section members forming part of a wall or floor
when one of the flanges and part of the web are
protected from fire by the adjoining masonry or
concrete construction, can possess periods of fire
resistance in excess of 1½ hours. Free standing
I-section steel columns with the web voids filled with
autoclaved aerated concrete blocks can achieve ½
hour fire resistance 3 4 . Many elements of frames are
designed to interact so as to give greater economy and
increased stiffness and strength. Such interactions can
mean that frame-works behave better in real fires than
the results of standard fire tests on individual
elements would indicate 35 .

Loadbearing timber stud and joisted constructions

form the subject of the second part to a
comprehensive British Standard 11 which enables such
constructions to be designed on the basis of a
computational approach. The tables allow for
symmetrical and asymmetrical constructions with
varying stud and joist sizes, loading, linings and
cavity infill. A few examples have been devised for
use in Part II but for a comprehensive selection see
BS 5268: Section 4.2 itself.

Further development in the field of structural fire

protection is likely to be on the basis of research
studies in progress at various institutes with a view to
improving existing knowledge and development of
mathematical techniques for modelling fire behaviour.
The current knowledge on the physical and
mechanical properties of materials at high
temperatures is far from complete but over the next
few years more comprehensive data should emerge,
thus providing more information for design purposes.

12
PART II

NOTIONAL PERIODS OF FIRE RESISTANCE

13
General notes for all tables (e) ‘finish’ to masonry forms of construction ~
It should be noted that: means a finish on both faces of a single leaf
wall and on the exposed faces of a cavity wall.
i These tables are not intended to be exhaustive
and should not prejudice the acceptance of any (f) gypsum board finish plaster ~ means Class B,
other acceptable method of construction or form of Type b.2 plasters to BS 1191: Part 1: 1973 38 .
protection (see Section 2 in Part I).
(g) insulation of glass, rock or slag fibre ~ means
ii The periods of fire resistance given for the mineral fibre thermal insulation to BS 5803:
different forms of construction assume the use of Part 1: 1985 39 .
sound materials and good workmanship (see
Sections 4.2 and 4.3 in Part I). (h) lightweight concrete ~ means concrete of a
density not exceeding 2000 kg/m 3 .
iii The selection of suitable forms of fire-resisting
construction for any particular situation will also (i) lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (including
require consideration as to durability and location. metal lathing grades) ~ means gypsum
building plasters to BS 1191: Part 2: 1973 18 .
In the tables, any reference to:
(j) plasterboard (including type F) ~ means
(a) asbestos insulating board* ~ means asbestos gypsum plasterboard to BS 1230: Part 1:
insulating boards and asbestos wallboards to 198540.
BS 3536: Part 2: 197436.
(k) plywood (for walls) ~ means any sheathing
(b) brick (solid) ~ means a brick without frogs or grade plywood of minimum density 500 kg/m 3 .
with frogs up to 20 per cent of its volume but
with no through holes or perforations10 . (l) wood chipboard ~ means wood chipboard to
BS 5669: 1979 41 of minimum density 600 kg/m 3
(c) dense concrete ~ means concrete which is not (walls), 680 kg/m 3 (floors).
lightweight concrete as defined in (h).
(m) wood wool slabs ~ means wood wool slabs to
(d) expanded metal lath ~ means expanded metal BS 1105: 1981 42 of minimum density 650
lath to BS 1369: Part 1:1987 37 . kg/m 3 .

*Since first publication of these tables, asbestos insulating board has been withdrawn from the market and its use is not recommended.
There are now many types of asbestos-free substitute boards, many of which perform equally well in fire tests. As there is no generic
term that describes them, it is suggested for the time being that the entries in the tables are used merely for guidance and that
manufacturers’ and suppliers’ advice is sought as to what products offer similar performance to the asbestos insulating board listed.

14
 Table 1 Masonry walls: solid (Required to resist fire from one side at a time)

Minimum thickness (mm), excluding any finish, for a fire resistance (hours) of:

Nature of construction and materials Loadbearing Non-loadbearing

½ 1 1½ 2 3 4 ½ 1 1½ 2 3 4

1 Un-reinforced dense concrete (less than 0.4% vertical

reinforcement) 150 150 175 - - -

2 Reinforced dense concrete ~ upto 2400 kg/m 3 l00 120 140 160 200 240
(0.4 to 1% vertical reinforcement) (25) (25) (25) (25) (25) (25)

3 Reinforced dense concrete 75 75 100 100 150 180

(over 1% vertical reinforcement) (15) (15) (25) (25) (25) (25)

+
4 Reinforced lightweight concrete ~ 1200 kg/m 3 100 100 115 130 160 190
(0.4 to 1% vertical reinforcement) (10) (20) (20) (25) (25) (25)

5 No-fines dense concrete with

(a) 13 mm cement/sand 150 150 150 150 150 150
(b) 13 mm lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster 150 150 150 150 150 -

6 Bricks of clay, brickearth or shale

φ
(a) without finish 90 90 100 100 170 170 75 75 90 100 170 170
φ
(b) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster 90 90 90 90 100 - 75 75 90 90 90 -

7 Bricks of concrete or calcium silicate

(a) without finish 90 90 100 100 190 190 75 75 90 100 170 170
(b) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster 90 90 90 90 100 - 75 75 90 90 90 -

8 Blocks of dense concrete

(a) without finish 90 90 100 100 - - 50 75 90 l00 140 150
(b) with 13 mm cement/sand 50 75 90 90 100 140
(c) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster 90 90 90 90 100 - 50 75 75 75 90 -

9 Blocks of lightweight concrete

(a) without finish 90 90 100 100 140 150 50 75 75 75 125 140
(b) with 13 mm cement/sand 50 75 75 75 90 100
(c) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster 90 90 90 90 100 - 50 50 63 75 75 -

10 Blocks of autoclaved aerated concrete (of density 480 to 1200 kg/m3)

(a) without finish 90 90 100 100 140 180 50 50 63 63 75 100
(b) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster 90 90 90 100 l00 -

11 Blocks of autoclaved aerated concrete

(of density 400 to 479 kg/m3 ) 100 100 120 130 160 200 75 75 85 100 100 140

( ) Minimum thickness of actual cover to main reinforcement.

+ For concrete of densities between 1200 kg/m3 and 2400 kg/m3 the value of wall thickness may be interpolated.

15
φ Suitable for 75 mm brick-on-edge construction with a completely solid unit with plane faces.
16
Table 2 Masonry walls: hollow (Required to resist fire from one side at a time)

Minimum thickness (mm), excluding any finish, for a fire resistance (hours) of:

Nature of construction and materials Loadbearing Non-loadbearing

½ 1 1½ 2 3 4 ½ 1 1½ 2 3 4

1 Bricks of clay, brickearth or shale, not less than

(a) 7 5 % solid e g perforated, (i) without finish 100 170 170 170 200 200 75 100 100 170 170 200
(ii) with 13 mm lightweight
aggregate gypsum plaster 90 100 100 170 170 – 75 75 90 100 100 –

(b) 5 0 % solid, (i) with 13 mm c e m e n t / s a n d 215 215 215 215 – – 215** 215** 215 215 – –
(ii) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate g y p s u m plaster 215 215 215 215 215 – 215** 215** 215 215 215 –

(c) 40% solid, without finish 215 215 – – – – 215 215 – – – –

2 Blocks (outer web not less than 13 mm thick) of clay, brickearth or

shale, finished with 13 mm cement/sand
(a) One cell*, not less than 30% solid 150 150 – – – –
(b) One cell*, not less than 50% solid 75 100 – – – –
(c) Two cells*, not less than 45% solid 150 150 225 225 – –
(d) Two cells*, not less than 50% solid 100 100 100 100 – – 75 – – – – –
(e) Two cells*, not less than 70% solid 75 100 100 100 – –
(f) Three cells*, not less than 60% solid 150 150 150 150 150 150
(g) Three cells*, not less than 70% solid 150 150 150 150 150 150

3 Blocks of dense concrete

(a) without finish 90 125 125 140 140 150
(b) with 13 mm cement/sand 190 – – – – – 90 125 125 140 140 140
(c) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate g y p s u m plaster 190 190 200 200 – – 75 90 90 100 125 –

4 Blocks of lightweight concrete

(a) without finish 90 100 100 100 – – 75 90 90 100 140 150
(b) with 13 mm cement/sand 75 75 75 100 140 140
(c) with 13 mm lightweight aggregate g y p s u m plaster 63 63 75 75 90 –

* The number of cells is that in any cross section through wall thickness.
**May be reduced to 100 mm for walls built with cellular bricks.
 Table 3 Masonry cavityφ walls (Required to resist fire from one side at a time)

Minimum thickness (mm), for each leaf, excluding any finish, for a fire resistance (hours) of:

Nature of construction and materials Loadbearing Non-loadbearing

½ 1 1½ 3+ 4+ ½ 1 1½ 2 3 4

1 Solid bricks of clay, brickearth, shale, concrete or calcium silicate 90 90 100** 100** 100 100 75 75 75 75 75 75

2 Solid blocks of dense concrete 90 90 100 100 - - 50 75 75 75 75 75

3 Solid blocks of lightweight concrete 90 90 100** 100** 100 100 50 75 75 75 75 75

4 Solid blocks of aerated concrete (of density 480 to 1200 kg/m3 ) 90 90 100 100 140 150 50 50 63 63 75 75

5 Hollow bricks of clay, brickearth, shale, concrete or calcium

silicate, n o t less t h a n 5 0 % solid 90 90 90 90 90 100

6 Hollow blocks (outer web not less than 13 mm thick) of clay,

brickearth or shale, finished with 13 mm cement/sand
(a) n o t less t h a n 5 0 % solid 100 100 100 100 - - 100 100 100 100 100 100
(b) n o t less t h a n 7 0 % solid (eg. perforated) 100 100 100 l00 150 150 100 100 100 100 100 100

7 Hollow blocks of lightweight concrete 90 100 100 100 100 100 50 75 75 75 75 75

φ Cavity not less than 50 mm wide

+ Imposed load shared by both leaves (if load is carried by the exposed leaf only, its minimum thickness should be that given for loadbearing single leaf walls)
** May be reduced to 90 mm if the load is distributed over both leaves

17
 GUIDANCE NOTES FOR TABLES 4 AND 5 (INTERNAL FRAMED CONSTRUCTION)
1 The tables for timber framed internal walls are based on information taken from the draft BS
5268: Part 4: Section 4.2 11 in which computational methods of achieving fire-resisting timber
framed structures are provided. The proposed standard permits consideration of different linings
and thicknesses, stud spacing and sizes, cavity insulation and full or sixty per cent loading
conditions.

2 Stud sizes, for steel (non-loadbearing): 25 swg (or thinner) channel section – allowance for
expansion 19 mm in 3 m.

3 Stud sizes, for timber: finished dimensions (depth × thickness) of not less than –
(loadbearing) 72 mm × 37 mm, subject to
(a) load ratio (in Tables 4 and 6)
(b) manufacturer’s recommendations for stability of the framing and minimum nail spacing
from the edges in connection with fixing adjoining boards.

(non-loadbearing) 72 mm × 37 mm, subject to (b) above.

NOTE. Timber species and grades for structural wall framing to be as accepted in BS 5268: Part
2 20 .

4 Fixing: Boards should be fixed at every stud and should be fixed and supported on all four
edges to either studs or noggins. All vertical joints should be made over studs. In double layer
construction, both layers require fixing independently.

Method of fixing, spacing and length/size of nails and screws should be in accordance with
manufacturers instructions.

Expanded metal lath for plastering should be fixed to supports at 100 mm centres with 38 mm
galvanised nails or 32 mm galvanised staples. End laps to be not less than 50 mm, side laps to be
not less than 25 mm, and in both cases should be wired together at 150 mm intervals. In order that
adequate mechanical bond is attained by the plaster, the lath should be spaced away from the
background by some suitable means to give a 6 mm gap or alternatively an appropriate proprietary
brand of lath should be used.

Specified thickness of plaster to be measured from the face of the lath.

5 Load ratio: ratio of the actual axial load to the permissible axial load in a stud in the cold
condition, expressed as a percentage.

6 Cavity infill: the inclusion of cavity insulation will not prejudice the tabulated performances
and where correctly fixed, may enable beneficial amendments to be made to the specifications.

18
Table 4 Framed internal walls. Loadbearing.
(Required to resist fire from one side at a time)

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
Timber studs at 600 mm centres (except where indicated), faced on each side with: ½ h l h

1 One layer of plasterboard with all joints taped and filled 12.5 + +

2 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in outer layer taped and
filled – total thickness for each face 25 + +

3 One layer of 9.5 mm ø plasterboard with a finish of lightweight aggregate gypsum

plaster – thickness of plaster 10 + 13 + +

4 One layer of 12.5 mm plasterboard with a finish of lightweight aggregate gypsum

plaster – thickness of plaster 13 + +

5 Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (metal lathing grade)
– thickness of plaster 13 + 13 + +

6 One layer of plywood, or of wood chipboard 18+

7 One layer of asbestos insulating board fixed

(i) direct to studs 12 + +
(ii) to each stud through continuous fillets of 9 mm asbestos insulating board 9++

ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres
+
Minimum acceptable stud sizes: ++
37 mm at 100% load ratio
37 mm at 60% load ratio or 44 mm at 100% load ratio

Table 5 Framed internal walls. Non-loadbearing.

(Required to resist fire from one side at a time)

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
Steel or timber studs at 600 mm centres (except where Stud
indicated), faced on each side with: construction ½ h 1h

1 One layer of plasterboard with all joints taped and filled Timber or steel 12.5

2 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in outer

layer taped and filled–total thickness for each face Timber or steel 19ø 25

3 Plasterboard of thickness –
(i) with not less than 10 mm lightweight gypsum plaster finish Timber 9.5ø
(ii) with not less than 13 mm lightweight gypsum plaster finish 12.5

4 Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster

(metal lathing grade) – thickness of plaster Timber 13 13
Steel 13

5 One layer of plywood, or of wood chipboard Timber or steel 18

6 One layer of asbestos insulating board fixed to each stud

through continuous fillets of 6 mm (min) asbestos insulating
board Timber 9

ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres

19
 GUIDANCE NOTES FOR TABLES 6 AND 7 (FRAMED EXTERNAL WALLS)
1 The table for loadbearing timber framed external walls is based on information taken from
the draft BS 5268: Part 4: Section 4.2 11 in which computational methods of achieving fire-
resisting timber framed structures are provided. The proposed standard permits consideration of
different linings and thicknesses, stud spacing and sizes, cavity insulation, full or sixty per cent
loading conditions and direction of fire exposure.

2 The tables for external non-loadbearing walls are not appropriate for those situations where
unprotected steel loadbearing structural members have been included in the cavity so formed.

3 Timber stud sizes, species and grades, fixing and load ratio, as guidance notes (3) (4) and (5)
for Tables 4 and 5.

4 External cladding (examples for use with table 6):

(a) clay or concrete tiles on battens, backed with 8 mm plywood sheathing;
(b) 100 mm brickwork or blockwork with or without sheathing;
(c) clay or concrete tiles on battens, backed with 12 mm plywood sheathing.

NOTE. Masonry should be fixed to the studwork with metal ties through the sheathing. Where
the sheathing is omitted, timber noggins are required for stability.

5 Cavity infill (examples for use with table 6):

The insulation should protect at least 80% of the depth of the stud and should be flange fixed, or
wedged between the studs, or fixed to the studs with clout headed nails or staples at 750 mm
(maximum) spacing.

Minimum thickness and density –

+
glass fibre, 60 mm (16 kg/m 3 ) or 80 mm (12 kg/m 3 ); or
rock or slag fibre, 60 mm (23 kg/m 3 )
++
rock or slag fibre, 60 mm (23 kg/m 3 )

20
Table 6 Part 1 Framed external walls. Loadbearing.
(Required to resist fire only from inside the building)

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance*
of:
Nature of construction and materials
Timber studs at 600 mm centres (except where indicated), with an internal lining of: ½ h 1 h
(a) (b)

1 One layer of plasterboard with all joints taped and filled 12.5 +

2 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in outer layer taped and
filled – total thickness of plasterboard 19ø 25++

3 Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (metal lathing grade)
– thickness of plaster 13

4 One layer of asbestos insulating board fixed direct to studs 12 +

Minimum acceptable stud size, 37 mm at 100% load ratio

*Stability and integrity for full period and insulation for 15 minutes (minimum)
ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres
(a)
(b) Examples of external cladding – see guidance note 4

+
+ + Cavity insulation required – see guidance note 5

Table 6 Part 2 Framed external walls. Loadbearing.

(Required to resist fire from one side at a time)

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance
of:

Nature of construction and materials ½ h 1h

Timber studs at 600 mm centres with an internal lining of: (c) (b)

1 One layer of plasterboard with all joints taped and filled 12.5 +

2 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in outer layer taped and
filled, total thickness of plasterboard 25++

3 Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (metal lathing grade)
– thickness of plaster 13 + 13 + +

4 One layer of asbestos insulating board fixed direct to studs 12 +

Minimum acceptable stud size, 37 mm at 100% load ratio

(b)
Examples of external cladding - see guidance note 4
(c)

+
++ Cavity insulation required – see guidance note 5

21
 Table 7 Part 1 Framed external walls. Non-loadbearing
(Required to resist fire only from inside the building)

A Nature of construction and materials Minimum thickness (mm) of protection for a

Timber studs at 600 mm centres (except where indicated), fire resistance* of:
with an external cladding of weatherboarding or external
plywood, 9.5 mm, and internal lining of: ½ h 1h 1½ h 2 h 3 h 4 h

Al Plasterboard not less than 9.5 mm thick ø and lightweight

aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10

A2 Plasterboard not less than 12.5 mm thick and gypsum board

finish plaster – thickness of plaster 5

A3 One layer of asbestos insulating board 9++

12

A4 Any appropriate single leaf wall listed in Tables 1 or 2 • • • • • •

* Stability and integrity for full period and insulation for 15 minutes (minimum)
++
The boarding fixed through not less than 6 mm fillets to the face of the studs
ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres

Table 7 Part 1 Framed external walls. Non-loadbearing (continued)

(Required to resist fire only from inside the building)

B Nature of construction and materials Minimum thickness (mm) of protection for a

Steel frame with an external cladding of non-combustible fire resistance* of:
sheets (excluding sheet steel), with a steel ≠ supporting
frame-work and internal lining of: ½ h 1h 1½h 2h 3h 4h

Bl Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum

plaster (metal lathing grade) – thickness of plaster 13 13 15 15 15 19
13+ 13+ 13+ 15+

B2 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in

outer layer taped and filled – total thickness 21 32

B3 Plasterboard of thickness –
(a) with not less than 5 mm gypsum board finish plaster 12.5
(b) with not less than 10 mm lightweight aggregate gypsum
plaster finish 9.5ø

B4 One layer of asbestos insulating board with transverse joints

backed by fillets of asbestos insulating board not less than 9
mm thick, or by timber 9 9 12 12 12** 12**

B5 One layer of wood wool slabs without finish 50

B6 Aerated concrete blocks (density 480 to 1200 kg/m3 ) 50 50 63 63 75 100

B7 Bricks of clay, brickearth or shale without finish 75 75 90 90 100 l00

* Stability and integrity for full period and insulation for 15 minutes (minimum)
≠
A timber supporting framework is acceptable for the ½ hour and 1 hour constructions
+
Plus independently supported cavity insulation of 50 mm (min) mineral fibre insulating material
** Plus independently supported cavity insulation of 25 mm (min) rock or slag wool based mineral fibre insulating material
ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres

22
Table 7 Part 1 Framed external walls. Non-loadbearing (continued)
(Required to resist fire only from inside the building)

Minimum thickness (mm)

C Nature of construction and materials of protection to provide
Steel frame with an external cladding of sheet steel fully lapped, steel bolted and sufficient insulation to
fixed to steel sheeting rails, with timber or steel supporting framework and achieve a fire
internal lining of: resistance of up to 4 h*

Cl Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (metal lathing
grade) – thickness of plaster 13

C2 One layer of plasterboard with joints taped and filled 12.5

C3 Plasterboard of thickness, with not less than 5 mm gypsum board finish plaster 9.5ø

C4 One layer of asbestos insulating board with transverse joints backed by fillets of
asbestos insulating board not less than 9 mm thick, or by timber 9

C5 One layer of wood wool slabs 25

C6 One layer of plywood, or of wood chipboard 18

C7 Aerated concrete blocks (density 480 to 1200 kg/m3 ) 50

C8 Bricks of clay, brickearth or shale 75

C9 Any internal decorative lining with a cavity fill independently supported and
retained in position of mineral fibre insulating material (excluding glass) at a
density of 48 kg/m 3 50

*Stability and integrity for full period and insulation for 15 minutes (minimum)
ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres
It should be noted that in the Table (C) for external cladding of sheet steel, the internal lining is only required to provide
the necessary insulation and the external cladding is therefore assumed to maintain its integrity and stability for the full
period; whereas in Table (B) for external cladding of non-combustible sheets (excluding sheet steel) no contribution is
expected from the cladding

Table 7 Part 2 Framed external walls. Non-loadbearing

(Required to resist fire from one side at a time)

Minimum thickness (mm) of protection for

Nature of construction and materials: a fire resistance of:

½ h 1h l½h 2h 3h 4h

1 Any external cladding in conjunction with an appropriate

framed construction listed in Table 5 • •

2 Any internal lining on a supporting framework with an

independent external leaf of appropriate masonry
construction listed in Tables 1 or 2 • • • • • •

23
 GUIDANCE NOTES FOR TABLES 8, 9, 10 AND 11 (CONCRETE STRUCTURES)
1 Cover. May be either taken in all situations as the distance between the nearest heated face of the
concrete and the surface of the main reinforcement or an average value determined as follows –

(a) Floor slabs. Cover is the average distance from the soffit or the heated face. With one-way
spanning single layer reinforcement the actual distance is used, ie C 1 . With two-way spanning floor
slabs the average distance is calculated taking into account reinforcement in both directions as multi
layer reinforcement. With one-way spanning floor slabs, only multi layer reinforcement in the same
direction should be used to determine the average distance. The average distance C ave is calculated as
follows:

A1C1 + A2C2 + A3C3 + .....An Cn ΣAC

C ave
A 1 + A 2 + A 3 + . . . . An ΣΑ

Where A = area of tensile reinforcement/tendons

C = distance between the nearest exposed surface and the main reinforcement

(b) Rectangular beams. The effective cover C ave for the assembly of main reinforcement is
determined as in (a).

(c) I-section beams. The effective cover C ave after determination as in (b) is adjusted by multiplying it
by 0.6 to allow for the additional heat transfer through the upper flange face.

2 Floor thickness. In the case of solid slabs and ribbed slabs the thickness to consider is the actual
thickness of the slab (including any non-combustible finish on top).

For hollow slabs (or beams with filler blocks) the effective thickness ‘te ’ should be obtained by
considering the total solid per unit width as follows:

te = h x S + tf

Where h = actual thickness of slab

S = proportion of solid material per unit width of slab
t f = thickness of non-combustible finish

3 Steel. The tabulated data for simply supported elements are based on the steel reinforcement
retaining a proportion of its strength at high temperatures; the data are based on the reinforcing bars
and prestressing tendons retaining 50% of their ambient strength at 550°C and 450°C respectively.
For steels with other strength characteristics, an appropriate adjustment in cover will be needed.

4 Loading. The tables are based on the assumption that the elements considered are supporting the
full design load.

5 End conditions. The data in the tables distinguishes between simply supported and continuous
constructions for flexural members, ie beams and slabs for both reinforced concrete and prestressed
concrete. In practice, the majority of constructions will be continuous and benefits can be derived from
the permissible reductions in cover and other dimensions, where the designer has made provision for
fixity in the resistance to normal loads by the provision of reinforcement properly detailed and
adequately tied to adjacent members. In the case of precast construction or a mixture of precast and
insitu construction, it will be necessary for adequate provision to be made for continuity and restraint
to end rotation.

6 Protection against spalling. Acceptable measures are –

(a) an applied finish by hand or spray applied plaster, vermiculite, etc;
(b) the provision of a false ceiling as a fire barrier;
(c) the use of lightweight aggregates; and
(d) the use of sacrificial tensile steel.

The use of welded steel fabric as supplementary reinforcement poses practical difficulties in keeping the
fabric in place and in compacting the concrete. In certain circumstances, there would also be a conflict
with recommendations made for durability.

24
7 Additional protection. Where the concrete cover is inadequate, applied materials such as
cement/sand in a thickness equivalent to the concrete cover deficiency may be used provided a good
key exists. Where the thickness of the applied protection exceeds 15 mm a light retaining mesh should
be incorporated; the mesh being mechanically fixed back to the concrete. Alternatively, vermiculite
gypsum plaster or vermiculite cement, hand trowelled or sprayed, or sprayed mineral fibre insulating
material, may be used at thicknesses significantly less than the concrete cover deficiency. The
appropriate thicknesses will depend on the precise properties of the material selected and reference
should be made to the manufacturer. (see also Section 5.3 in Part I regarding key/bond).

The following guidance is given in BS 8110:Part 2:1985 (in each case the equivalent thickness of
concrete may be replaced by the named protection) –

Mortar
= 0.6 x concrete thickness

}
Gypsum plaster
Lightweight plaster
= 1.0 x concrete thickness up to 2 h
Sprayed lightweight
plaster 2.0 x concrete thickness > 2 h

Vermiculite slabs = 1.0 x concrete thickness up to 2 h

= 1.5 x concrete thickness > 2 h

8 Variation of cover. The values in tables 8 to 11 relate cover to main reinforcement to minimum
member sizes. These minima may be adjusted by applying the corrections given in the table below.
However, cover should in no case be less than required in the case of plain soffit floors of the same
fire resistance.

Minimum Decrease in cover

increase
in width Dense concrete Lightweight concrete

mm mm mm

25 5 5
50 10 10
100 15 15
150 15 20

Where a member is wider than the tabulated minimum, some decrease in the cover to main
reinforcement may be appropriate. Decreases should be made with caution in the light of the principles
of fire safety design and should not exceed the values in the above table. In no case should the
resulting cover be less than the values required for plain soffit floors of the same fire resistance.

9 Examples of beam and floor designs are shown in Figure 14(a), (b) and (c).

10 Further guidance on the design of concrete structures may be found in BS 8110.

25
 Table 8 Reinforced concrete columns

Minimum dimensions + (mm), excluding any combustible

finish, for a fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
½ h l h l½h 2h 3h 4h

1 Fully exposed
(a) Dense concrete width** 150 200 250 300 400 450
cover + + 20 25 30 35 35 35
(b) Lightweight concrete width** 150 160 200 240 320 360
cover + + 20 20 25 35 35 35

2 50 per cent exposedø

(a) Dense concrete width*** 125 160 200 200 300 350
cover + + 20 25 25 25 30 35
(b) Lightweight concrete width*** 125 130 160 185 250 275
cover + + 20 20 25 25 30 30

3 O n e - f a c e e x p o s ed ø
(a) Dense concrete thickness + + + 100 120 140 160 200 240
cover + + 20 25 25 25 25 25
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness + + + 100 100 115 130 160 190
cover + + 10 20 20 25 25 25

+
The minimum dimension of a circular column is the diameter.
**
Minimum dimension for each face.
++
Actual cover to main reinforcement.
***
Width of face parallel to wall.
++ +
Depth of column through thickness of wall.
ø
Columns built into walls having not less fire resistance than that of the column and extending to the full height of the
column. The walls should be imperforate for the full width of the fire compartment, except for external walls where
openings are permitted up to within 600 mm on each side of the column.

26
Table 9 Concrete beams

Minimum dimensions (mm), excluding any combustible

finish, for a fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
½ h l h 1½ h 2 h 3h 4h

1 Reinforced concrete (simply

supported) +
(a) Dense concrete width 80 120 150 200 240 280
cover 20 30 40 50 70 80
(b) Lightweight concrete width 80 100 130 160 200 250
cover I5 20 35 45 55 65

2 Reinforced concrete
(continuous) + +
(a) Dense concrete width 80 80 I20 150 200 240
cover 20 20 35 50 60 70
(b) Lightweight concrete width 60 80 90 110 150 200
cover 15 20 25 35 45 55

3 Prestressed concrete (simply

supported)
(a) Dense concrete width 100 120 150 200 240 280
cover 25 40 55 70 80 90
(b) Lightweight width 80 110 130 160 200 250
cover 25 30 45 55 65 75

4 Prestressed concrete
(continuous)
(a) Dense concrete width 80 100 120 150 200 240
cover 20 30 40 55 70 80
(b) Lightweight concrete width 80 90 100 125 150 200
cover 20 25 35 45 55 65

+
‘Simply supported’ means those which are not ‘continuous’ as defined below.
++
‘Continuous’ means where the designer has made provision for end fixity in the resistance to normal
loads by the provision of reinforcement properly detailed and adequately tied to adjacent members.

In this table:
For all beams, including those with sloping slides, the width is the width determined at the level of the lowest
reinforcement. For fully exposed I section beams, the web thickness ‘b w ’ should not be less than 0.5 of the minimum
width specified for the various fire resistance periods.
Cover is the effective cover determined as explained in guidance note 1, and provision against spalling is required when
actual cover to outermost steel exceeds - 40 mm for dense concrete and 50 mm for lightweight concrete.

W eb r ei nf o rce me n t
es s e nt i a l

Figure 14(a) Typical examples of concrete beams

27
Table 10 Concrete floors: plain soffit

Minimum dimensions (mm), excluding any combustible

finish, for a fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
½ h l h 1½ h 2 h 3 h 4 h

1 Reinforced concrete (simply

supported) +
(a) Dense concrete thickness 75 95 110 125 150 170
cover 15 20 25 35 45 55
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
cover 15 15 20 25 35 45

2 Reinforced concrete
(continuous) + +
(a) Dense concrete thickness 75 95 110 125 150 170
cover 15 20 20 25 35 45
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
cover 15 15 20 20 25 35

3 Prestressed concrete (simply

supported)
(a) Dense concrete thickness 75 95 110 125 150 170
cover 20 25 30 40 55 65
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
cover 20 20 30 35 45 60

4 Prestressed concrete
(continuous)
(a) Dense concrete thickness 75 95 110 125 I50 170
cover 20 20 25 35 45 55
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
cover 20 20 25 30 35 45

+
‘Simply supported’ means those which are not ‘continuous’ as defined below.
++
‘Continuous’ means where the designer has made provision for end fixity in the resistance to normal loads by the
provision of reinforcement properly detailed and adequately tied to adjacent members.

In this table:
Thickness is as described in guidance note 2.
Cover is as described in guidance note 1, and provision against spalling is required where actual cover to outermost steel
exceeds - 40 mm for dense concrete and 50 mm for lightweight concrete.

Non-structural screed
or structural topping

Thickness Unit width

Solid C1
Joist and hollow block

Non-structural screed
o r structural topping
Unit width Unit with

Figure 14(b) Typical examples of

Hollow pot Hollow precast units plain soffit floors

28
Table 11 Concrete floors: ribbed open soffit

Minimum dimensions (mm), excluding any combustible

finish, for a fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
½ h 1h 1½ h 2h 3 h 4 h

1 Reinforced concrete (simply

supported)
(a) Dense concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
width 75 90 110 125 150 175
cover 15 25 35 45 55 65
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 85 95 100 115 130
width 60 75 85 100 125 150
cover 15 25 30 35 45 55

2 Reinforced concrete (continuous)

(a) Dense concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
width 75 80 90 110 125 150
cover 15 20 25 35 45 55
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 85 95 100 115 130
width 70 75 80 90 100 125
cover 15 20 25 30 35 45

3 Prestressed concrete (simply

supported)
(a) Dense concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
width 80 110 135 150 175 200
cover 25 35 45 55 65 75
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 85 95 100 115 130
width 75 90 110 125 150 175
cover 20 30 35 45 55 65

4 Prestressed concrete (continuous)

(a) Dense concrete thickness 70 90 105 115 135 150
width 70 75 110 125 150 175
cover 20 25 35 45 55 65
(b) Lightweight concrete thickness 70 85 95 100 115 130
width 70 75 90 110 125 150
cover 20 25 30 35 45 55

In this table:
Width for all beams, including those with sloping sides, is the width determined at the level of the lowest reinforcement.
For notes regarding method of support, cover and thickness, see table 10.

Non-structural screed
Thickness or structural topping

W idth b W idth b

T-section Channel section Figure 14(c) Typical examples of

ribbed soffit floors

29
 GUIDANCE NOTES FOR TABLES 12 AND 13 (STRUCTURAL STEEL)
1. The following tables of protection thickness related to fire resistance periods are appropriate
for the steel section size stated and it may be necessary therefore to adjust the specification to
compensate for the different shape and weight of other steel sections. However, the specifications
are generally adequate for steel sections larger than that stated. For steel sections smaller than
those stated, Part I, Section 5.4 should be referred to.

2. Solid protection: means a casing which is bedded close to the steel without intervening cavities
and with all joints in that casing made full and solid.

Hollow protection: means that there is a void between the protective material and the steel.
However, it should be noted that the tables give forms of protection both where the protection is
in direct contact with the flange(s) and where the air cavity is maintained over the flange(s).

All hollow protection to columns should be effectively sealed at each floor level.

3. Expanded metal lath: the sheets should be lapped 50 mm and steel wire laced at horizontal and
vertical joints at nominal 150 mm centres.

For columns, the lathing should be spaced from the flanges by 1.2 m (nominal) lengths of 6 mm
diameter mild steel rods tack welded to the steel or wired to the lath. Gaps should be provided
between the rods to allow for expansion. (See also note 8).

For beams, the lathing should be wired to and supported by a cage of 6 mm diameter mild steel
rods arranged at approximately 400 mm pitch to form a lattice (with rod positions staggered
between the sides of the beam). The rods should be welded to the top and bottom flanges and then
bent under to act as a spacing for the lath beneath the lower flange. (See also note 8).

4. Plaster reinforcement: where the thickness of render or plaster exceeds 25 mm, chicken wire
mesh (12.5 mm x 0.6 mm), or similar, should be provided at about mid-depth and be laced to the
lath.

5. Timber cradles: (see also note 8) should be spaced at 450 mm centres for 9.5 mm plasterboard
and at 600 mm centres for 12.5 mm and 19 mm plasterboard.

For beams, the cradles should be screwed to continuous 44 mm x 44 mm (nominal) timber battens
fixed to the floor or top flange.

6. Concrete reinforcement: should consist of steel binding wire not less than 2.3 mm in thickness,
or a steel mesh weighing not less than 0.5 kg/m 2 , and the spacing of that reinforcement should not
exceed 200 mm in any direction.

7. Examples of methods of protection to beams and columns are shown in Figure 15(a) and (b).

8. Proprietary methods of protection have been published by the ASFPCM 2 5 and additional
guidance on the use of plasterboard construction and expanded metal lath and plaster for
I-sections is to be included in the revised edition.

30
Table 12 Encased Steel Columns. 203 mm x 203 mm x 52 kg/m (Hp/A = 125)
(Loaded in accordance with BS 449:Part 2 30)

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
(Protection applied on four sides) ½ h 1h 1½ h 2h 3h 4h

(A) Hollow protection (without an air cavity over the flanges)

Al Expanded metal lath* with
(a) cement/lime/sand render (1:2:6 by volume) – thickness of render 13 25
(b) lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (metal lathing grade) –
thickness of plaster 13 13 15 19 32+ 50+

A2 Plasterboard with 1.2 mm steel wire binding at 100 mm pitch (if spiral)
or 100 mm centres (if bands)
(a) 9.5 mm plasterboard (minimum) finished with lightweight
aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10 13
(b) 19 mm plasterboard finished with
(i) gypsum board finish plaster – thickness of plaster 5 5
(ii) lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 15 19

A3 Solid bricks of clay, composition or sand lime, reinforced in every

horizontal joint, unplastered 50 50 50 50 75 100

A4 Solid blocks of foamed slag or pumice concrete, reinforced in every

horizontal joint, unplastered 50 50 50 50 60 75

A5 Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks, density 475 – 1200 kg/m3 60 60 60 60

A6 Solid blocks of lightweight concrete 50 50 50 50 60 75

(B) Hollow protection (with an air cavity over the flanges)

≠
B1 Plasterboard on 44 mm x 44 mm (nominal) timber cradles ,
finished with lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster
(a) 9.5 mm plasterboard (minimum) – thickness of plaster 10 I3
(b) 19 mm plasterboard – thickness of plaster 10 10 15 19

(C) Solid protection

Cl Dense concrete, not leaner than 1:2:4 mix (unplastered)
(a) concrete not assumed to be loadbearing, reinforced ø 25 25 25 25 50 75
(b) concrete assumed to be loadbearing, reinforced in accordance with
BS 5950:Part 1 31 50 50 50 50 75 75

C2 Lightweight concrete, not leaner than l:2:4 mix (unplastered) –

concrete not assumed to be loadbearing, reinforced ø 25 25 25 25 40 60

* Provided in accordance with guidance note 3.

+
To be reinforced in accordance with guidance note 4
≠
Spaced in accordance with guidance note 5.
ø
Reinforced in accordance with guidance note 6.

31
 Table 13 Encased Steel Beams. 406 mm x 178 mm x 60 kg/m (Hp/A = 130)
(Loaded in accordance with BS 449:Part 2 30)

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
(Protection applied on three sides) ½h 1h l½ h 2h 3h 4h

(A) Hollow protection (without an air cavity beneath the lower flange)
Al Expanded metal lath* with
(a) cement/lime/sand render (1:2:6 by volume) – thickness of render 13 25
(b) lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (metal lathing grade) –
thickness of plaster 13 13 15 19 32+ 50+

A2 Plasterboard with 1.2 mm steel wire binding at 100 mm

pitch (if spiral) or 100 mm centres (if bands)
(a) 9.5 mm plasterboard (minimum) finished with lightweight
aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10 13
(b) 19 mm plasterboard finished with
(i) gypsum board finish plaster – thickness of plaster 5 5
(ii) lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 15 19

(B) Hollow protection (with an air cavity beneath the lower flange)
B1 Plasterboard on 44 mm x 44 mm (nominal) timber cradles ≠ ,
finished with lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster
(a) 9.5 mm plasterboard (minimum) – thickness of plaster 10 13
(b) 19 mm plasterboard – thickness of plaster 10 10 15 19

(C) Solid protection

Cl Dense concrete, not leaner than 1:2:4 mix (unplastered)
(a) concrete not assumed t o be loadbearing, r e i n f o r c e d ø 25 25 25 25 50 75
(b) concrete assumed to be loadbearing, reinforced in accordance with
BS 5950:Part 1 31 50 50 50 50 75 75

C2 Lightweight concrete, not leaner than l:2:4 mix (unplastered)

concrete not assumed t o be loadbearing, reinforced ø 25 25 25 25 40 60

* Provided in accordance with guidance note 3.

+
To be reinforced in accordance with guidance note 4.
≠
Spaced and supported in accordance with guidance note 5
ø
Reinforced in accordance with guidance note 6.

32
Solid Profile Hollow Hollow
(with air gap
over flanges) Figure 15(a) Methods of
protection to steel
columns

Solid Profile Hollow Hollow

(with air gap over
bottom flange) Figure 15(b) Methods of
protection to steel
beams supporting a
concrete floor slab

33
 GUIDANCE NOTES FOR TABLE 14 (TIMBER FLOORS)
If should not be assumed that a ceiling construction adequate for timber joisted construction is
also adequate as protection to steel beams requiring the same degree of fire resistance.

The tabulated data are based on information taken from the draft BS 5268: Part 4: Section 4.2 11
in which computational methods of achieving fire-resisting timber floor constructions are
provided. The proposed standard permits consideration of different joist sizes, floor boarding
and ceiling protection.

1 Modified ½ hour: refers to a term used in connection with building regulations in respect of
floors in two storey private dwelling houses. The constructions tabulated do not give full
compliance with the criteria of stability, integrity and insulation. They can maintain their integrity
and satisfy the insulation requirements for not less than 15 minutes and are able to carry the
appropriate load for not less than 30 minutes. It should not be assumed that such floors could
necessarily satisfy the reload requirements of BS 476: Part 8 or that a percentage reduction in the
time for stability has been applied where premature collapse may occur.

2 Joists: the two important aspects which determine which ceiling protection should be used are
the breadth of the joist and the flooring type/thickness. These tables have used joists with a
minimum breadth of 37 mm for simplicity, in association with different boarding systems, (due
regard being given to include joist sizes to comply with manufacturers fixing instructions). Where
the dominant factor is protection to the joist, the ceiling protection will be the same for different
floorings. In practice, the ceiling specification will be able to be reduced for increased joist sizes.
In these cases, reference should be made to the manufacturer concerned.
• the joist breadth selected, as mentioned above, should also have regard to the manufacturer’s
fixing instructions for the ceiling protection used.
• the depth should be appropriate for the load and span according to BS 5268: Part 2 20 .
• the recommended spacing is 400 mm centres; however, except where particularly mentioned,
these centres may be increased to 600 mm subject to manufacturer’s recommendations for their
materials. Maximum spacing for fixing –
9.5 mm plasterboard is 450 mm
12.5 mm and 15 mm plasterboard is 600 mm
19 mm plasterboard is 800 mm
but closer spacings may be recommended.

3 Fixing: the following recommendations are minima, and should be provided at every joist. In
double layer constructions both layers require fixing independently as stated. It is normally
recommended that boards should be fixed and supported on all four edges, either to joists or
noggings.

• 9.5 mm plasterboard – 30 mm galvanised nails – 150 mm centres

12.5 mm and 15 mm plasterboard – 40 mm galvanised nails – 150 mm centres
19 mm-25 mm plasterboard – 60 mm galvanised nails – 150 mm centres
30 mm-35 mm plasterboard – 65 mm galvanised nails – 150 mm centres
asbestos insulating board – 50 mm x 4 mm wood screws – 400 mm centres

• Expanded metal lath for plastering should be fixed to supports at 100 mm centres with 38 mm
galvanised nails or 32 mm galvanised staples. End laps to be not less than 50 mm, side laps to be
not less than 25 mm, and in both cases should be wired together at 150 mm intervals. In order
that adequate mechanical bond is attained by the plaster, the lath should be spaced away from
the background by some suitable means to give a 6 mm gap or alternatively an appropriate
proprietary brand of lath should be used.

• Specified thickness of plaster on laths, to be measured from the face of the lath.

4 Materials: joists – species and grades to be as accepted in BS 5268: Part 2.

plywood – species and grades to be as included in BS 5268: Part 2.
softwood boarding – generally in accordance with BS 129743 and of minimum
density 420 kg/m 3 .

34
Table 14 Timber floors

(A) Any structurally suitable square edge flooring

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
modified
37 mm (minimum) Timber joists with a ceiling of: ½h ½ h 1h

Al Timber lath and plaster – thickness of plaster 15

A2 Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster (metal

lathing grade) – thickness of plaster 13 19

A3 One layer of plasterboard with joints taped and filled and backed by
timber 12.5 15

A4 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in outer layer

taped and filled – total thickness 19Ø 25

A5 Two layers of plasterboard (type F) with joints staggered, joints in

outer layer taped and filled – total thickness 25**

A6 Two layers of plasterboard, each not less than 9.5 mm thick ø , joints
between boards staggered and outer layer finished with gypsum board
finish plaster of thickness 5

A7 One layer of plasterboard not less than 9.5 mm thick ø , finished with
lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10 19

A8 One layer of plasterboard not less than 12.5 mm thick, finished with
lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 13 19

A9 One layer of asbestos insulating board with any transverse joints

backed by fillets of asbestos insulating board not less than 9 mm thick,
or by timber 9 12

ø Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres.

**In conjunction with 47 mm (minimum) joists.

35
 Table 14 Timber floors (continued)

(B) Tongued and grooved softwood of not less than 15 mm finished thickness (19 mm nominal)*

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
37 mm (minimum) Timber joists (except where indicated) modified
with a ceiling of: ½ h ½ h 1h 1½ h

Bl Timber lath and plaster – thickness of plaster 15

B2 Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster

(metal lathing grade) – thickness of plaster 13 19

B3 One layer of plasterboard with joints taped and filled and

backed by timber 12.5 15

B4 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in outer

layer taped and filled – total thickness 19 ø 22ø 30 + +

B5 Two layers of plasterboard (type F) with joints staggered, joints

in outer layer taped and filled – total thickness 12.5 25** 30**

B6 One layer of plasterboard not less than 9.5 mm thick ø , finished

with lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10 19

B7 One layer of plasterboard not less than 12.5 mm thick, finished

with
(a) gypsum board finish plaster – thickness of plaster 5
(b) lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10 15

B8 One layer of asbestos insulating board, with any transverse

joints backed by fillets of asbestos insulating board not less than
9 mm thick, or by timber 9ø

* Or sheets of tongued and grooved plywood/wood chipboard 15 mm (minimum) thick.

ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres.
++
In conjunction with 50 mm (minimum) joists and plywood or wood chipboard flooring.
**In conjunction with 47 mm (minimum) joists.

36
Table 14 Timber floors (continued)

(C) Tongued and grooved softwood of not less than 21 mm finished thickness (25 mm nominal)*

Minimum thickness (mm)

of protection for a
fire resistance of:
Nature of construction and materials
37 mm (minimum) Timber joists (except where indicated) modified
with a ceiling of: ½ h ½ h 1h 1½ h

Cl Timber lath and plaster – thickness of plaster 15 15 +

C2 Expanded metal lath and lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster

(metal lathing grade) – thickness of plaster 13 13

C3 One layer of plasterboard with joints taped and filled and

backed by timber 12.5

C4 Two layers of plasterboard with joints staggered, joints in outer

layer taped and filled – total thickness 19ø 30++

C5 Two layers of plasterboard (type F) with joints staggered, joints

in outer layer taped and filled – total thickness 12.5 25** 30**

C6 One layer of plasterboard not less than 9.5 mm thick ø , finished

with lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10 19

C7 One layer of plasterboard not less than 12.5 mm thick, finished

with
(a) gypsum board finish plaster – thickness of plaster 5
(b) lightweight aggregate gypsum plaster – thickness of plaster 10 15

C8 One layer of asbestos insulating board with any transverse joints

backed by fillets of asbestos insulating board not less than 9 mm
thick, or by timber 9ø

* Or (i) sheets of tongued and grooved plywood/wood chipboard 15 mm (minimum) thick; or

(ii) square edged sheets of plywood/wood chipboard 15 mm (minimum) thick, with all joints
backed by timber sections of 37 mm (minimum) breadth.
+
In conjunction with 50 mm (minimum) joists at 400 mm centres.
ø
Supports not to exceed 450 mm centres.
++
In conjunction with 50 mm (minimum) joists and plywood or wood chipboard flooring.
**In conjunction with 47 mm (minimum) joists.

37
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BSI, London, 1985. ‘Interflam 88’ conference workbook. March 1988.

38
23. Institution of Structural Engineers. Report of a 33. British Steel Corporation. Compendium of UK
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39

Printed in the UK for HMSO Dd.8380755, 4/93, C7, 38938

Guidelines for the construction of fire-resisting structural elements BRE

ISBN 0 85125 293 1

BR 128