31 Aug 2023

Do I Need Fire-Rated Downlights?

Tagged as : fire rated downlights compliance fire rated spotlights firerated downlights led integrated downlights

Downlights have many benefits; their flexibility, for starters, is a huge bonus. Whether open-plan or for lighting many rooms, downlights can detract from imperfections in the ceiling, which in older home renovations could be an issue. But moreover, they give an incredible lighting aspect for all ceilings due to the flush fit against the ceiling surface, giving them a clean aesthetic with a modern feel.

Used as task lighting in certain areas, over island workstations in kitchens, for example, downlighting allows for specific, targeted lighting. Additionally, high-traffic areas like hallways or entrances provide extra illumination. Moreover, there is a design element perfect for spotlighting stylish designs, pieces of art, or family photos.

Regarding safety, considering whether you need fire-rated downlights could be the first thing you think about when choosing downlights for your home or business.

Why fire-rated downlights are a thing

Plasterboard ceilings have a natural barrier to fire, but compromising the integrity of a ceiling by creating a hole for a light is a potential fire hazard. However, it is possible to restore the integrity of your ceiling with the use of fire-rated downlights.

Should a fire occur, the downlight hole would act like a portal allowing the fire to spread without much in its way. Once a fire has made its way into the hole, the adjoining structure (usually wooden ceiling joints) is next in line, and as you might imagine, the outcome can be catastrophic.

Fire-rated downlights act as an extra barrier and slow down the fire from spreading. Modern downlights are fitted with an intumescent pad that expands when exposed to certain high temperatures. In this way, the fire has to find another route, which can significantly delay further damage.

The extra time would allow occupants to exit the building and for the fire to be safely extinguished. Some fire-rated lights have a rating of 30, 60 or 90 minutes. This rating not only depends on the structure of the building but how many floors there are. For example, the upper floor of a block of flats would need a 90 or even 120-minute fire rating, while ground-floor dwellings would require a 30 or 60-minute fire rating.

30-minute ceilings - made from a 600mm joist centre with a single layer of 12.5mm plasterboard.
60-minute ceilings - made from a 600mm joist centre with a double layer of 15mm plasterboard.
90-minute ceilings - made from a 450mm joist centre with a double layer of 15mm plasterboard.

30,60 & 90 Minute Fire Rated

Legal compliance

Work carried out on residential or commercial properties must, by law, comply with Building Regulations. Part B focuses on fire safety and is divided between Volume 1 for domestic dwellings and Volume 2 for other structures, such as commercial buildings. You can view the statutory guidance Fire Safety: Approved Document here [link to: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-approved-document-b]. It explains regulations in England covering fire safety in and around buildings.

Joist Compliant Fire Rated Downlights (Sourced from https://auroralighting.com/gb/ijoist)

I-Joists

Timber Engineered I-Joists, sometimes known as I-Beams, are comprised of a top and bottom timber flange combined with a tall vertical OSB (Oriented Strand Board) web:

They are strong and lightweight, with enhanced rigidity
High strength-to-weight ratio for easier handling and on-site installation
Can be cut to required length on-site and installed more quickly
Not prone to shrinking or warping, resulting in a quieter floor construction
Can be manufactured in greater lengths, reducing the need for columns & beams
Allows for larger spaces, satisfying the trend for open-plan living areas in homes

Metal Web Joists

Metal Web Joists are constructed with a top and bottom stress graded timber cord, plated together with high strength open metal web sections on either side of the top and bottom timber flanges:

Have an open central section for ease of installation of services
Different lengths available to allow for longer spans
Ideal for open-plan spaces within residential buildings
Less timber means less shrinkage
Manufactured to length off-site
Timber cords should never be cut or drilled on site
The metal webs should never be cut or removed, as this will reduce strength

Solid Timber Joists

Softwood joists are ideal for smaller projects, such as extensions, small dwellings or where relatively short spans are involved.

Traditional method for building floors using solid timber
Strength Grading of joists is done by machine to British Standard EN 14081 to classes C16 or C24
There are actually 12 Strength Classes available in Europe, but the UK mainly uses C16 and C24
The Strength Class of the joist is very important when determining which joist to use for your project. It will help you identify which joist dimensions to use for a particular span and loading situation

Trustworthy electrical suppliers

Whether you're planning on revamping your existing lighting or building from scratch, make sure you speak to specialists who know all there is about lighting and safety. PEC Lights has over four decades of electrical experience so that you can embark on your downlighting journey with complete confidence. Visit their online store or physical shop and speak to one of their friendly staff members today. Call 0208 503 4314, or visit PEC Lights for more information and their latest deals and special offers.

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