Update of the Ordinance Regulating Fire Resistance Testing

As we well know, the regulation of fire resistance in construction products is crucial to ensuring safety in buildings. Over the years, European regulations have evolved to reflect technological advancements and new demands for safety and sustainability. In this context, the transition from Regulation 2000/367/EC to Regulation 2024/1681 is noteworthy.

To provide some context, Regulation 2000/367/EC was adopted to establish a unified classification system for the performance of construction products concerning their fire resistance. Its main objective was to harmonize national regulations, thereby facilitating the trade of these products within the European single market and ensuring a basic level of fire safety. Regulation 2000/367/EC was based on standard fire resistance tests for various construction products, such as panels, beams, and fire doors. It utilized testing methodologies based on existing standards, such as fire resistance tests under controlled laboratory conditions, focusing on the ability of products to withstand fire spread for a specified period.

Considering the technological advancements applied to construction materials and elements, it has been determined that Regulation 2000/367/EC does not cover certain performance classes and therefore limits the possibility of declaring more detailed and transparent performances. Therefore, it is necessary to establish updated performance classes based on the latest technological advancements and the most recent market evolution. This led to the adjustment of the ordinance, reflected in Regulation 2024/1681, which expands and updates the provisions of the previous regulation. It recognizes the need to incorporate technological advancements and new methodologies for evaluating fire resistance.

Realistically and currently, the European Union considers that new classifications should be added for non-loadbearing elements or products with a fire separation function applicable to non-loadbearing roofs, non-mechanical fire barriers for ventilation ducts, penetration seals, combined penetration seals, linear joint seals, and air transfer grilles.

Additionally, taking into account the technical progress of evaluation methods and for the sake of legal clarity, the European Union considers that Decision 2000/367/EC should be repealed as it also requires more detailed explanations and reference points concerning the products, including revised information in the comments contained in the new Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/1681, which covers the requirements and also provides more detailed explanations and reference points regarding the products.

The evolution of European regulations on the fire resistance of construction products, from Regulation 2000/367/EC to Regulation 2024/1681, reflects significant technological progress and adaptation to new market demands. Regulation 2000/367/EC established a fundamental framework for fire resistance classification, but over time it became evident that these regulations needed to be updated and expanded to include new performance classes and more advanced evaluation methodologies. Regulation 2024/1681 addresses this need by incorporating technological advancements and expanding the categories of covered products, thereby ensuring greater safety and transparency. This update ensures that manufacturers can declare more detailed performances and confirms the European Union’s commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability in the construction sector. The mandatory and directly applicable nature of this regulation in all Member States ensures uniform harmonization and compliance, enhancing fire protection across the region.