What is BS EN 1366-4 about?
BS EN 1366-4 is the fourth part of a multi-series specifies a method for determining the fire resistance of linear joint seals based on their intended end-use. Perimeter seals of curtain walling are excluded from this part of the EN 1366 series.
The following tests are included in this document:
- No mechanically induced movement
- Mechanically induced movement
The load-bearing capacity of a linear joint seal is not addressed in this part of the EN 1366 series. No information can be implied by the test concerning the influence of the inclusion of linear joint seals on the loadbearing capacity of the separating element.
Tests in accordance with this part of the EN 1366 series are not intended to provide quantitative information on the rate of leakage of smoke and/or hot gases, or on the transmission or generation of fumes.
Who is BS EN 1366-4 for?
BS EN 1366-4 on assessment of fire resistance of linear joint seals test is useful for:
- Manufacturers and suppliers of linear joint seals
- Testing authorities
- Fire safety and fire extinguishing agencies
- Installers
- Civil engineers
Why should you use BS EN 1366-4?
Fire resistant linear joint seals are an important means of establishing a passive fire protection system for buildings, that when correctly installed can help save human life and property in the event of a fire.
BS EN 1366-4 specifies tests for linear joint seals which are positioned in joints, voids, gaps, or other discontinuities within one or between two or more construction elements. The purpose of the tests is to assess the effect of a linear joint seal on the integrity and insulation of the construction which provides standard conditions for joints with the mechanically induced movement of opposing joint faces.
BS EN 1366-4 is beneficial as seals are intended to prevent or to restrict the passage of fire between elements or components or to maintain the integrity and insulation performance of one or more fire separating elements at linear discontinuities for a specified duration.
BS EN 1366-4 benefits the manufacture and fire department by providing test methods to check and test the quality of seals so that they can restrict the passage of fire between different components of a machine and reduces chances of mechanical breakdown.
Undertaking tests provided by BS EN 1366-4, can ensure the correct fire rated penetration seals are chosen for your suited applications. Ultimately, in the event of a fire, you can be assured of safe evacuation of occupants from the building while buying time for rescue services to arrive. You can also consider BS EN 1366-4 as part of the maintenance protocols for the safety of existing buildings.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 1366-4-2021 supersedes EN 1366-4:2006+A1:2010, which is withdrawn.
The following changes have been made:
- Mechanically induced movement described only prior to fire exposure
- Clear definition of movement capability
- Missing applications added or detailed testing procedure described
- Top of wall Joint for walls abutting concrete slabs with profiled metal sheet
- Chapter for the direct field of application added on each sealing type
