Chris Robinson , Mar 13, 2023 11:56:05 AM
Mistrust around Field of Application reports is growing.
As we touched on in a previous blog, the uncertainty regarding Field of Applications (sometimes referred to as Global Assessments) is worsening over time.
Used by manufacturers to justify third party fire certification they work by bringing together numerous fire resistant test reports into a single practical document that outlines the variations and permitted parameters in which the product’s fire performance criteria remains valid.
The Field of Application uses established empirical methods of extrapolation and experience of fire testing similar doorsets, in order to extend the application’s scope based on the tested constructions and the performances obtained.
Put more simply, Field Of Application reports bring together the results of multiple individual tests and provide a wider scope and final certification based on all the evidence found.
So why the mistrust? Let’s discuss the issues around this kind of global assessment.
The Problem With Field Of Application Reports
The scope provided is an evaluation of the potential fire resistance performance, if the variations specified therein were to be tested in accordance with BS 476- 22: 1987.
Field of Applications are based on extensive primary evidence tests.
Primary test evidence is when a door and all its component parts (e.g. spyholes, letterboxes, overhead closers) are installed as a complete door set and put through testing.
But if global assessments are written based on the findings from hundreds of primary evidence tests, which have tested hundreds of combinations of doorsets and ironmongery, why are people concerned? Well, it’s easier to demonstrate this through a simplified example.
Example Of Field Of Application Reports
| Test ONE assesses a tall, narrow doorset with a door closer, lever handle and lockset. |
| Test TWO assesses a shorter and wider doorset also with a door closer, lever handle and lockset. |
| Test THREE assesses a tall, narrow doorset, however, with a door closer, pull handles and push plate. |
The first two door sets passed a primary evidence test using a door closer, lever handle and lockset.
Then the taller doorset also passed a primary evidence test using a door closer, pull handles and push plate combination. The shorter door set hasn’t yet been tested with this combination of features.
A Field of Application may therefore determine based on the evidence gained, that the untested shorter door set would pass a fire test using the door closer, pull handles and push plate. They would come to this conclusion based on assumption, rather than clear evidence.
This is a very simplified analogy and those qualified to write Field of Applications would have far more information to better explain the details.
But, why the mistrust?
The Problem
Quite simply clients are afraid that in accepting a Field of Application they (& the doorset manufacturer) do not have primary test evidence to back up what they have asked the manufacturer to make.
Their concerns are valid. But is it practical, and how much testing would need to be done to satisfy all combinations of fire door sets?
In truth, we cannot test every combination of doorset and ironmongery. Although more and more clients are requesting this.
Realistically, combinations of doorset (including size, fire rating and finish) and ironmongery run into the millions of potential systems. To achieve this, we would either have to manufacture a very small selection door set combinations, or build an extra door set for every one we produce.
One to install, and one to burn test.
Conclusion: What Can You Do?
So what can you do? If individual tests are impossible to achieve on every conceivable combination, how can you protect your buildings and reputation with trusted fire door sets?
You can start by protecting yourself by only employing a manufacturer who has full third-party certification to manufacture doorsets. Unfortunately, it is not illegal for none qualified manufacturers to manufacture under a Global Assessment (Field Of Application) scheme. This is harrowing.
Request a Certificate of Registration and Scope Document from your chosen manufacturer. The scope document confirms the Primary Field of Application Reports owned by that certified company. If they are listed within the Scope Document you have third party evidence that the manufacturing company has the authority and knowledge to manufacture fire rated doorsets using the materials specified within.
But there’s more you can do to safeguard your building, occupants and reputation. Select a genuinely certified manufacturer who will work with you to establish your own set of primary evidence (Burn Tests) for your projects.
At RW Doorsets we work with clients to establish a selection of “corporate image” doorset and ironmongery combinations that will allow you to use your preferred doorset and ironmongery combinations across all your projects.
Our services have extended to clients within national and local government, architects, large housing associations and main contractors required to underwrite their own proposals.
If you’d like to discuss Field of Application reports or your project in more detail, feel free to talk to an expert today. Simply fill out the form below or call us on 0161 480 8722.
