The BSGA Corner
Fire safety considerations in signage materials and installation
Alongside David’s input the BSGA will also be providing technical advice to our readers going forward via this new addition known as the Knowledge Hub. It will be part of the newly named BSGA corner. Starting things off will be the organisation’s Technical Committee discussing how to tackle fire safety and how to be compliant.
A
s standards evolve and legacy classifications remain in circulation,
clarity around fire performance is essential. The British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA) highlight the key considerations for the signage sector. The BSGA Technical Committee is
proud to present the Knowledge Hub Series – a practical resource on essential topics for signage professionals. Each hub introduces key concepts,
which are explored further in the BSGA’s full Compliance Guidance documents. The series supports stakeholders
across the signage lifecycle, from specifiers and designers to installers and suppliers, helping them meet compliance requirements and adopt best practices.
Focusing on fire safety Fire safety is a fundamental aspect of signage design, manufacture, and installation. The materials selected, integration with building systems, and onsite practices all influence how signage performs in the event of a fire. Context is critical: What is suitable
for a low-risk internal office may be wholly inadequate for busy retail spaces, high occupancy buildings, complex facades, or external signage exposed to the elements. Signage professionals must therefore
assess fire behaviour, classification systems, and certification requirements when specifying and installing materials. Adhesives, laminates, and ancillary components should also be fire rated where required to maintain overall system performance and safety. Standards continue to evolve,
yet legacy classifications remain in circulation within our supply chains, creating potential uncertainty. Fire safety is a shared responsibility across all parties delivering signage works.
Specifiers, subcontractors, installers, and suppliers must understand compliance requirements, provide supporting documentation, and verify all materials. This includes reviewing manufacturer
test reports, confirming the scope of testing, and ensuring suitability for both internal and external applications. Maintaining organised records of fire rated products supports audits, inspections, and future refurbishment. By combining careful specification,
verification, and documentation, signage professionals can minimise risk, demonstrate due diligence, and ensure safe, compliant installations while maintaining long-term regulatory compliance.
Fire Certification Systems
• Euroclass (EN 13501-1, CEN): Harmonised European standard covering combustibility (A1–F), smoke production (s1–s3), and flaming droplets (d0–d2). This is now the primary benchmark for specifying materials in UK signage projects.
• BS 476 Series (legacy UK tests, BSI): Part 6 addressed fire propagation, Part 7 surface spread of flame. The former ‘Class 0’ designation is no longer recognised under current building regulations. Has been replaced by Euroclass.
• Large scale system tests (BS 8414 / NFPA 285): Relevant for signage forming part of, or attached to, building facades, these tests assess assembly performance under realistic fire conditions.
• Other ratings: DIN 4102 (Germany) and ASTM E84 (US) are still used by some suppliers internationally. Always check whether they are accepted by UK regulations.
Material behaviour varies widely. Metals and glass are generally
non-combustible, whereas acrylic, PVC, and standard PE-core ACM can ignite readily and produce dense smoke. Fire-retardant (FR) or A2-rated variants
improve performance, but certification must always be verified for the specific product, thickness, finish, and application. Practical fire safety measures onsite
are essential to protect people and property. Solvents and adhesives should be stored in fire rated cabinets, spray booth extraction maintained, and hot works segregated, with fire extinguishers readily accessible. During installation, Risk Assessments
and Method Statements (RAMS) should explicitly address fire risks, include hot works permits, and ensure installers are briefed on local fire strategies. Maintenance and refurbishment work should avoid introducing non fire rated materials, with a fire safety log maintained to record any changes and support ongoing compliance. Fire safety compliance protects
operatives, the project, and end users. Achieving this requires structured planning, careful specification, thorough testing, verification, and clear documentation at every stage. Where uncertainty arises, guidance should be sought from fire safety specialists or regulatory professionals. By following these principles, signage
professionals can minimise risk, demonstrate due diligence, and deliver signage that is safe, fit for purpose, and fully compliant.
www.signupdate.co.uk
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