Fire penetration includes any service that goes through a firewall within a building (excluding external walls and roofs). Tombo Brand Rockwool products have been tested to AS1530.4 and AS4072.1 in accordance with the requirements of BCA Clause C3.15 and will achieve fire resistance levels (FRL) of up to -/120/120 in accordance with the TICA test report provided by us on request. It is recommended that professional advice should be provided from a fire engineer for the specific FRL that the system you are selecting will achieve. Basically, if you add any service to a building that goes through an existing firewall — it counts as fire penetration and must meet the requirements of the Building Code of Australia.
In order for any insulation job to be compliant with the Building Code of Australia (BCA), a fire-resistance level (FRL) must be met for all products that are used.
Why is this necessary?
The building that insulation is being installed in, has already met specific fire resistance standards. However, once another element is added (in this case insulation), the fire resistance properties may change. This is particularly the case when these elements completely penetrate through the building.
Non Combustible Report Number: G103395805-1
Simultaneous Determination Of Ignitability, Flame Propagation, Heat release and Smoke Release Report Number: 18-004906
Verification Method C/VM2 Appendix A Report Number: FH5921TT
AS1530.4-2019
Fire resistance is one of the main points of consideration when it comes to insulation. This helps to protect buildings from becoming ablaze due to fire hazards (such as embers, small flames, etc.)
While some materials will need chemical treatment (such as fire-retardant chemicals) to improve fire resistance — some materials such as mineral wool do not require this treatment.
The fire resistance of a material depends on factors such as:
Depending on your country and state, there will be different safety requirements that must be met regarding fire service penetrations. Check with your local authority regarding their specific need in relation to the FRL requirement regarding your project.
Insulation is considered passive fire equipment. So when you have this installed, you must hire someone with a passive fire Certification Licence (penetration and joint sealing) to provide certification. This is in accordance to the Building Code of Australia.
Avoid the risk of being fined or losing your licence from not following requirements
Ensure the safety of hundreds of lives by ensuring fire safety specifications are met
It’s in your professional interest to meet all legal requirements and use the highest quality materials.
Any insulation brand that is built to a high standard would have already followed the Australian building standards.
