Woodsafe Research & Development, part of the Woodsafe Group, has recently published a white paper analyzing testing methods for fire protection of wood. The report highlights the shortcomings of small-scale tests and compares them with more large-scale and realistic testing methods.
SBI-2. Image Credit: Woodsafe Research & Development
Small-scale laboratory tests can provide some insight during product development, but they are not sufficient to ensure overall fire safety. They tend to underestimate the risks in a fire, which can lead to misleading conclusions and incorrect priorities in development. Additionally, they can create an exaggerated perception of risks that do not align with reality.
To make more balanced risk assessments, for example for insurance companies, large-scale tests that provide better data are required. These tests mimic real conditions and provide more reliable results. Examples of such tests include medium-scale methods like Single Burning Item (SBI), where materials are tested in a three-dimensional corner construction, or full-scale facade fire tests like SP Fire 105.
Realistic Scenarios Provide Reliable Results
It is crucial to understand how different materials and facade systems behave at the beginning of a fire. Factors such as cladding, insulation, and air gaps play a significant role. Large-scale tests make it possible to analyze flame spread, heat development, and other critical parameters under the most realistic conditions possible.
These tests not only provide a better understanding of how fire-retardant treated wood behaves in a fire but also help to strengthen confidence in wood structures as a safe and sustainable building solution.
Focus on Sustainability
Condemning fire-retardant treated wood based on insufficient tests would be a step back for sustainable construction. An increased focus on concrete as a replacement would undermine global sustainability goals. Therefore, new developed standards that reflect insights from larger-scale tests are needed. The proposed revision of the EN 16755 standard is a step in the right direction.
The fire protection industry is increasingly abandoning small-scale tests in favor of medium and large-scale methods. Woodsafe Research & Development’s long-term study is part of the Woodsafe Group’s commitment to strengthening fire safety. The company works to show that wood structures are a safe and sustainable solution with maintained fire protection over time.
With facts and research as a foundation, Woodsafe contributes to shaping a safer and more sustainable future for the construction industry.