What is British Standard 8524?

We’re all used to hearing the term ‘British Standard’ but what does it actually mean?

A British Standard sets out the minimum standards a product must meet before it is sold or supplied to consumers. This means that it is recognised as a ‘quality product’, giving buyers peace of mind that they are using something that is fit for the specified purpose.

Safety products that comply with British Standards are commonly required by insurance companies. They provide them with a benchmark to help assess if the products you’re using to keep your assets and property safe are going to do a good job. If you’re not using a product that has been awarded a British Standard, you’re liable to run into problems should you need to make a claim for damage.

What is the British Standard Kitemark?

The British Standard kitemark is added to products that meet the specified manufacturing and performance standards. The mark enables consumers to quickly identify if the product they’re using, or considering using, has been awarded the British Standard.

Not all products are kitemarked. It’s important to remember that kitemarks do not prove or disprove the existence of an awarded British Standard. They provide an indication only. Sometimes, a product cannot be marked for some reason and it’s also not practical for authorities to police the entire system. If in any doubt, you should contact the manufacturer or retailer and confirm that a British Standard applies before purchasing.

About BS 8524

BS 8524 is the British Standard that applies to active fire curtains. It’s split into two parts: Part 1 is the specification that deals with the thorough testing of the fire curtain itself, Part 2 is the specified Code of Practice that covers correct installation, appropriate applications and the required maintenance.

It’s vital to check that the fire curtain you’re using, or planning on having installed, has been awarded BS 8524. This means that the fire curtain has been rigorously tested before being sold to consumers. It ensures that the curtain will not compromise fire separation or any form of compartmentation that is already in place. The award of this particular British Standard covers every aspect of a fire curtain, including the design, durability, performance, correct installation and maintenance.

Our fire curtains have all been awarded this important British Standard. With something as important as fire safety – you should expect nothing less.