EN 13823:2010/FprA1

Overview

EN 13823:2010/FprA1 is a CEN European Standard describing a laboratory test method to determine the reaction to fire performance of construction and building products (excluding floorings) when subjected to thermal attack from a single burning item (SBI). The document updates EN 13823:2010 and clarifies calculation, precision and calibration procedures. It is intended to provide a reproducible, harmonized method for evaluating how building products respond to a localized fire source.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and exclusions: Applies to building products excluding floor coverings and products listed in Table 1 of EC Decision 2000/147/EC.
• SBI test concept: Defines the method for exposing products to a single burning item and assessing their reaction to that thermal attack.
• Calculation procedures: Annex A contains the calculation methods used to derive test results. Amendment A1 modifies A.5.1.1 to specify the oxygen depletion factor calculation based on measured mole fractions of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) averaged between 30 s and 90 s after test start.
• Precision: Annex B gives information on the repeatability and precision of the test method to support evaluation of measurement uncertainty and comparability between laboratories.
• Calibration: Annex C (normative) and Annex D describe calibration procedures required to ensure test rig and instrumentation consistency across test facilities.

Applications and users

• Who uses EN 13823:
  • Manufacturers of non-flooring building products seeking comparable fire-performance data
  • Accredited fire test laboratories performing SBI tests
  • Fire safety engineers and consultants specifying products for buildings
  • Certification bodies and regulators assessing compliance with fire-safety requirements
  • Product developers conducting fire-risk assessment and material selection
• Practical value:
  • Provides a harmonized, documented method to evaluate product behavior under a single-item fire scenario
  • Supports consistent test results through defined calculation, precision and calibration rules
  • Helps stakeholders compare materials and demonstrate performance for regulatory and certification processes

Related standards

• EN 13823 is part of the suite of European reaction-to-fire standards developed by CEN/TC 127. Users typically consult associated standards and national regulations governing classification and assessment of reaction-to-fire performance.

Keywords: EN 13823, reaction to fire, single burning item (SBI), building products, CEN standard, oxygen depletion factor, calibration, precision, fire testing.