How to read a fire classification string
2026-11-12
Fire performance is the most quoted and least read property in a finishes submittal. The document usually carries the answer, in a code most reviewers skim.
The letters decode into four separate tests
A1, A2, B, C, D, E, F is combustibility, best to worst. The s number is smoke production, 1 to 3. The d number is burning droplets, 0 to 2. In flooring, the fl suffix is added for the floor test.
A2-S2,d0,t0 therefore reads: limited combustibility, moderate smoke, no burning droplets, and no flaming droplets within the test period for that product family.
Why the same standard gives different answers
EN 13501-1 is a classification standard, not a pass mark. Two panels can both be tested to it and be classified A2 and D respectively, because the test measures behaviour, not intent.
A datasheet that says tested to EN 13501-1 without the resulting class is a document with the answer removed.
What to put in the specification
Write the required class, not the standard: for a hospital escape route, A2-s1,d0 or better on walls and ceilings. Then require the classification report in the project name.
For floors, require Bfl-s1 as a minimum in clinical areas. Our homogeneous range is B1 to the national standard and tested to the European system; our GRP ceiling carries A2-S2,d0,t0.
| Element | Meaning | Better end |
|---|---|---|
| A1–F | Combustibility | A1 |
| s1–s3 | Smoke production | s1 |
| d0–d2 | Burning droplets | d0 |
| t0–t2 | Flaming droplets, floors | t0 |
| fl | Floor test suffix | Required for flooring |
FAQ
Is Class 0 the same as Class A?
No. Class 0 is a national shorthand used in some markets; it is not a European classification and cannot be compared directly with A2.
Does CE marking prove fire class?
No. CE marking is a declaration of performance; the class has to be stated, and for our wall and floor ranges we do not claim CE.
Can a system be classified, not just a panel?
Yes, and for ceilings the system matters — grid, hangers and panel together determine the result.
Send the fire section of your specification
We will write the class string it should carry.