At Survival Solutions, we recently uncovered a troubling case that highlights the importance of proper certification and compliance in fire safety installations.
During a routine assessment, one of our qualified fire safety assessors inspected a newly installed fire rated window that had been certified as compliant with an FRL of 0/90/0. However, something didn’t add up. The glass appeared too thin to meet the required fire resistance level, and critically, there were no compliance tags present.
Upon further investigation, we obtained the original certification and contacted the installer. It was revealed that the window and frame had been imported from an overseas supplier who had never tested the products to Australian Standard AS 1530.4. Worse still, the supplier had since gone out of business, leaving the client with non-compliant windows and no recourse through the original vendor.
As a result, the client is now pursuing recovery costs for the windows and associated damages, an unfortunate but avoidable situation.
Understanding Fire Rated Glass
Fire rated glass is specially designed to prevent the spread of flames, heat, and smoke through openings in fire rated walls. It serves a dual purpose: maintaining fire safety while allowing natural light into a building.
To be compliant, the glass must:
- Match the insulation rating of the wall it’s installed in
- Be tested and certified to meet a specific Fire Resistance Level (FRL)
- Be installed using the same materials and methods used during testing
Fire rated glass is always paired with mild or stainless steel frames and fixings, and it comes in various thicknesses and manufacturing types to meet different FRL requirements.
The Role of Compliance Tags
Compliance tags are essential for verifying that fire rated windows meet Australian standards. These tags should include:
- Product name and manufacturer
- FRL rating (e.g. 0/30/30, 0/60/60, 0/90/90)
- Testing method used
- Installation date
Tags should be clearly visible, ideally placed on the window frame or adjacent wall.
Regulatory Requirements
In New South Wales, fire rated windows are governed by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, Part 10, Clause 79. They must be listed on the fire safety schedule and included in the annual fire safety statement.
Protecting Your Property
This recent case is a reminder that certification alone is not enough. Before the end of any warranty period, it’s crucial to have an independent assessment conducted by a qualified fire safety assessor. This ensures that all fire safety measures including fire rated windows are compliant with performance standards.
Need Expert Advice?
If you have questions about fire rated windows or fire safety compliance, contact Survival Solutions on 1300 040 362. We’re here to help you protect your property and your peace of mind!