BS 476 to EN 1634: Why specifiers and contractors shouldn't panic

The UK's transition to European fire door testing standards represents a significant regulatory development, but with implementation not scheduled until 2029, there's ample opportunity for the industry to adapt without disruption.

A Major Shift – But Not an Urgent One
The government's decision to replace British Standard (BS) classifications with European Standard (EN) protocols for fire door testing has generated considerable discussion across the construction sector. It's a substantial change that will introduce new testing conditions for projects throughout the built environment.

However, as Jim White, technical director at Forza Doors, recently outlined in Building Design, this isn't a change that demands immediate concern from specifiers, contractors and project teams.

The new framework won't take effect until September 2029, providing the industry with time to prepare. During this transition period, fire doors that have been tested and certified under BS standards remain fully valid and compliant.

From British Standards to European Classification
The BS testing regime has been well proven over decades and continues to serve the industry well. The internationally recognised EN classifications will provide a more streamlined, rules-based, singular system which will remove ambiguity from the current regime of testing, assessing and classifying fire doors.

The Importance of Supplier Collaboration
Jim emphasises that the transition represents an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between specifiers, contractors and manufacturers. Proactive conversation with suppliers will ensure products align with both project design intent and the latest standards.

"Compliance isn't just about the certificate – it's about ongoing assurance," Jim notes in his Building Design article. Specifiers and contractors should feel confident that their supplier is not only keeping pace but staying ahead.

The key is to maintain good communication with your supplier or manufacturer. They will advise when it's time to switch specifications and ensure the products you order meet the right standard at the right time.

Evolution, Not Overhaul
The shift to EN is an evolution of proven testing methods, not a complete overhaul of the system. It underscores the complexity of fire safety and the importance of rigorous testing, but it does not undermine the validity of current BS-certified doors.

With time to prepare and industry leaders taking a proactive approach, specifiers and contractors can move forward without disruption.