Fire safety requires a multifaceted approach, including escape plans, fire compartments, fire doors, smoke alarms, firestopping, amongst many others. It also requires careful specification of insulation materials, meaning those that have low smoke emissions. Taking this approach can significantly reduce the risks associated with smoke inhalation and enhance chances of survival in the event of a fire.
While conventional elastomeric products that contain brominated flame retardants are very effective at inhibiting combustion in fires, they tend to produce a high level of smoke. That is why we have focused on developing intrinsically flame-resistant polymers by using our ArmaPrene patented technology.
We now offer a complete range of B/BL-s1,d0 classified elastomeric insulation tubes and sheets, which are able to help healthcare specifiers address regulatory frameworks and compliance standards. This classification is often referenced in contexts related to building materials and fire safety.
Meeting fire regulations
The designation B/BL-s1,d0 refers to a specific classification system used primarily within the UK & EU’s fire safety regulations. This system categorises materials based on their reaction to fire, assessing how they contribute to fire spread and smoke production.
- B: This indicates that the material has a limited contribution to fire, meaning it does not ignite easily and, if it does catch fire, it does not contribute significantly to the spread.
- BL-s1: This part of the classification signifies that the material produces very little smoke when burned (s1). This is critical in ensuring that evacuation routes remain visible during a fire emergency, thereby enhancing safety.
- d0: This part indicates that the material does not produce burning droplets.
The significance of the B/BL-s1,d0 classification cannot be overstated. In healthcare, commercial and residential buildings, materials that meet this classification are often preferred as they contribute to a safer environment. For instance, in high-rise healthcare buildings or public spaces, using materials with low smoke production can significantly reduce the risk of smoke inhalation, which is the leading cause of fatalities in fires.
In practical terms, materials classified as B/BL-s1,d0 are commonly used in various construction applications, including insulation. It also includes interior finishes, and even some types of furniture may fall under this classification, ensuring that they meet stringent safety standards.
Additionally, manufacturers and architects often reference this classification to comply with building codes and regulations. This not only helps in ensuring safety but also enhances the marketability of buildings, as clients increasingly seek properties that adhere to high safety standards.
While standard elastomeric products with brominated flame retardants used on HVAC systems inhibit combustion very effectively in the event of a fire, they tend to produce a high level of smoke. However, recent development of these latest intrinsically flame-resistant polymers resolves this conflict by using ablative protective additives, which means it is no longer necessary to add any brominated flame retardants.
This underscores the necessity for healthcare specifiers and building professionals to prioritise the selection of insulation materials, particularly those classified as B/BL-s1,d0. In healthcare facilities, the stakes are particularly high. Hospitals and clinics must ensure that their environments are safe for both patients and staff. The selection of insulation materials is therefore a critical component of this safety strategy.
Vulnerable patients may have limited mobility or compromised health, making it essential that they can evacuate safely in the event of a fire. As a result, healthcare facilities are subject to stringent regulations regarding fire safety.
Below are some recent case studies that have used our products.
New Stavanger University Hospital, Norway
Positioned on the hill of Ullandhaug in the scenic surroundings of Lysefjord, the new University Hospital is one of Norway’s largest, and serves a population of 400,000 in South-Rogaland. The project called ‘SUS 2023’ set out to provide a modern, specialist healthcare solution, that prioritised the future needs of its patients.
The university hospital is designed as a garden city with four rectangular buildings connected by glass bridges over inner courtyards, with nature flowing freely between them to support patients’ recovery. All in all, around 67,000 metres of cooling pipes had to be protected against condensation and energy losses. For the insulation of pipes running in escape routes, the engineering consultancy COWI AS (Oslo,Norway) specified the BL-s1,d0 classified ArmaFlex Ultima.
The construction was carried out as a Building Information Modelling (BIM) project with industrialised processes and digital collaboration. The buildings are connected to a district heating network which provides space heating via underfloor heating, whilst a cooling system provides comfort cooling. Chilled water is primarily provided by seawater from the Hafrsfjord.
A team of 65 people from Sig Halvorsen (and Finn Midtbøe, Stavanger) insulated the cooling equipment with the support of around 20 insulators from Kaefer Norge. As an energy intensive building, insulating the mechanical equipment with ArmaFlex is an easy and efficient way of saving energy. Our insulation materials had to meet the most stringent environmental requirements and save specifiers time by being accredited in the main green building schemes.
North Medical Centre, Estonia
The scope of this healthcare project involved extending the largest hospital in Estonia with a new 14,000 m² building. Keeping stable temperatures in the oncology department was key when planning the HVAC equipment.
For the insulation of the cooling system, the general contractor Merko Ehitus Eesti specified ArmaFlex Ultima. The BL-s1,d0 classified material guarantees reliable condensation control and energy savings in the long term. Insulation contractor Koda Ehitus protected pipes with diameters from 18-89 mm, with tubes and sheets in various insulation thicknesses. To improve safety, ArmaFix Ultima pipe hangers were used to mount the pipes. All in all, more than 6 km of ArmaFlex Ultima tubes, around 500 m² sheet material and 6,200 ArmaFix Ultima pipehangers were installed in this project.
Turku University Hospital T3, Finland
The extension of the Turku University Hospital (TYKS) in Finland was built over the railway and the E18 motorway. With a total area of 54,000 m² over eight floors, T3 joins the various parts of the hospital to create one functional building.
The visual appearance of the hospital refers to the nature of the Finnish archipelago and a lighthouse island. For this project, ArmaFlex Ultima elastomeric foam insulation was specified for the insulation of the cooling equipment by the general constructor.
The insulation contractor, Teollisuuseristys Sorri Oy, installed more than 12 km of ArmaFlex.
Ultima tubes and 1000 m² of ArmaFlex Ultima sheets with insulation thicknesses of 13 and 19 mm on pipes, with diameters ranging from 15-89 mm, were used.
The role of insulation in fire safety
We can see that insulation materials play a crucial role in healthcare design. They not only help to regulate temperature and improve energy efficiency but also contribute to the overall safety of building occupants during a fire. The choice of insulation can significantly impact the amount of smoke produced during a fire event.
Our ArmaFlex Ultima uses patented ArmaPrene technology, meaning we offer a complete range of B/BL-s1,d0 classified tubes and sheets. In comparison to a standard elastomeric product, the flame-resistant insulation material reportedly develops 10 times less smoke and offers increased safety in the event of a fire.
Unlike traditional insulation materials that may release toxic smoke during combustion, these materials are designed to emit minimal smoke, enhancing visibility and respiratory safety during a fire. The fact we have eliminated the need for brominated flame retardants, which are often associated with environmental and health concerns, makes these kinds of solutions a safer choice for healthcare settings.
They can be used for HVAC systems to insulate ductwork and piping, preventing heat loss and improving energy efficiency, while improving fire safety. They can also be used in refrigeration units, protecting sensitive medical supplies that require controlled temperatures. Its versatility means it can also be used for insulating hot and cold water pipes to prevent condensation and enhance fire safety.
Many modern insulation products continue to incorporate ablative additives that help to reduce smoke production and improve fire resistance. However, the use of intrinsically flame-resistant polymers eliminates the need for harmful substances like brominated flame retardants, which can contribute to smoke toxicity.
Rigorous testing
To achieve the B/BL-s1,d0 classification, insulation materials undergo rigorous testing. This process ensures that they meet the necessary standards for smoke development and flame spread. Insulation materials are subjected to standardised tests that simulate fire conditions, allowing for accurate assessments of their performance. Various organisations provide certification for insulation materials, ensuring that they meet the required safety standards.
Conclusion
To make hospitals a safe place for patients, visitors and employees, it is important to take all available measures to minimise the risk of harm from fires. In the event of a fire, materials that comply with B/BL-s1,d0 classification allegedly emit up to 10 times less smoke than a standard elastomeric product.
It is imperative for healthcare specifiers and building professionals to prioritise the selection of B/BL-s1,d0 classified insulation materials.
By doing so, they can enhance the safety of their buildings, protect vulnerable populations, and comply with regulatory standards. Choosing the right insulation material means creating a safer environment for everyone.