TGB 105 What’s the number for our insurers?
Everybody knows that insurance is seen as a cost that we would like to eliminate if we could, but we are always relieved to realise we have paid the yearly premium when there a problem. We all know the feeling. But what if you could not get insurance in the first place, might save you a few in the short term but…
Now let’s look at this situation in relation to spray-applied acoustic treatments in particular. In the last number of years, spray-on acoustic treatment has become very popular office fit-our sector for both cellular and open-plan situations plus retail and leisure. SonaSpray being the dominant product and Absolute Acoustics, the main supplier in the Irish market.
Sonaspray can back up it’s claims
The core element of the SonaSpray system is cellulose fibre. With the addition of naturally occurring compounds which are blended with the fibres, the SonaSpray K-13 and FC systems have been tested and shown to achieve B-s1,d0 plus Class O certification.
Testing has been completed by Warrington Fire to the following European and UK standards:-
- EN 13501-1:2007+A1: 2009
- BS 476:Part 6:1989+A1:2009 & BS 476:Part 7.
Fully detailed copies of the test report are available, more than happy to share the information.
Things to be aware of
By choosing the SonaSpray system, you will have the assurance that you are in full compliance with the most rigorous fire regulation requirements. When you broker/underwriter requests the necessary back-up documentation you will be in a position to respond in an immediate and affirmative manner, no hesitation. Fire reports produced by Warrington Fire are views with respect and are fully thrustworthy.
However, this may not be the case for all suppliers of spray-applied acoustic treatments. Depending on the formulation of the compounds which are used problems associated with the on-going smouldering of the material may occur. When such formulations are tested, they typically result in lesser fire performance outcomes, i.e. European B-s2- d0 and UK Class 1 only. Its most unlikely that such lower levels of performance would be acceptable from the point of view of a qualified fire consultant of a BCAR certifier.
Got A question for Neal? Dont Hesitate to get in touch.
Conclusion
In this case, you may well be able to save the cost of your insurance premium but only at the expense/risk of not being able to insure your building. Now you don’t really want that type of cost-saving, do you? Simple solution, before you commit to a contract for the supply and application of a spray-applied acoustic treatment, insist on receiving and reviewing all relevant fire test reports. Confirem that the testing has been undertaken in a fully accredited fire test laboratory. Make sure the reports are fully detailed and backs-up the claims made in the sales brochure and on any literate, which is supporting the proposal.
