Test, Accreditation & Responsibilities

Testing & Accreditation

The CASWELL FIRESAFE® system we supply has a track record built on independent testing and ongoing certification, not just a one-off test result:

Early 2000's First developed and tested in accordance with BS476: Part 24 (1987), at NAMAS/UKAS accredited test facilities, for up to 240 minutes of Stability, Integrity and Insulation.

Since Extensive further testing and investment to meet harmonised European Standards and UK/EU legislation, including CE marking.

EN12101:7 Certified for smoke control applications by Applus Laboratories, and tested to EN1366-1 (2014) and EN1366-8 (2004) classifications, achieving up to 120 minutes.

Ongoing Manufacturing facilities audited by Independent European Certification Limited as part of ISO 9001:2015 accreditation, with periodic physical inspections to maintain standards.

Explaining 'Stability, Integrity & Insulation' (BS476: Part 24)

Stability

The ability of the ductwork, including its support system, to remain intact and fulfil its intended function for a specified period of time.

Integrity

The ability of the ductwork to remain free from cracks, holes or openings outside the compartment in which the fire is present, for a specified period of time.

Insulation

The ability of the ductwork to maintain its function without its external surface temperature exceeding 140°C average, or 180°C maximum, above ambient, outside the compartment in which the fire is present.

For Commercial Kitchen Extract ductwork (Duct A), these same limitations also apply to the internal surface of the duct within the compartment in which the fire is present. Every system we supply is manufactured to satisfy the requirements of recognised ductwork specifications including DW144 and DW172.

Third-Party Certification

Our systems are assessed and certified by internationally recognised third-party experts in passive fire protection and quality management. Relevant test criteria, assessment and certification data are available on request, and accredited systems can be found listed in each organisation's own web-based certification files.

Applus Laboratories, UKAS, BRE, LPCB and UL third-party accreditation logos

Contractor Responsibility

If it's your responsibility to manage passive fire protection products, materials or systems — directly or indirectly — the onus is on you to ensure they're fit for purpose:

Ensure the manufacturer's fire test and certification evidence fully covers the intended use.
Ensure the installer can demonstrate appropriate competency in installing the passive fire protection products, materials and systems used.
Consider the system as a whole — ductwork, fittings, supports, access doors, attenuators, gaskets, sealants, flange clamps and fixings.

Industry Credentials

Our licensing partner, Caswell, is a full member of BESA (Building Engineering Services Association). Caswell Group staff currently hold the role of Chairperson for both the ASFP Ductwork & Dampers Technical Group (TG6) and the BSI (British Standards Institute) FSH 22/-/09 Technical Committee.