Integrity (E), Radiation Control (EW), Insulation (EI) and Smoke Control (SA) are standardised European fire protection classes. Read on for further information and how the classes differ.
INTEGRITY
Integrity (E)
Integrity (E) is the ability of a test specimen of a separating element of building construction, when exposed to fire on one side, to prevent the passage through it of flames and hot gases and to prevent the occurrence of flames on the unexposed side. The requirements are the following:
- cracks or gaps of certain dimensions
- ignition of a cotton wool pad
- sustained flaming on the unexposed side
RADIATION CONTROL
Radiation Control (EW)
Radiation Control maintains all the integrity performance of Integrity (E) when exposed to fire on one side, and also provides some heat resistance. The classification shall be given by the time for which the maximum value of radiation, measured as specified in the test standard, does not exceed a value of 15kW/m2.
INSULATION
Insulation (EI)
Insulation (EI) is the ability of a test specimen of a separating element of building construction, when exposed to fire on one side, to restrict the temperature rise of the unexposed face to below specified levels.
SMOKE CONTROL
Smoke Control (Sa)
Smoke Control (Sa) or smoke leakage is the ability of an element of construction to reduce the passage of hot and/or cold gases or smoke from one side of the element to the other to below specified levels.
