What does ‘Class 1 fire-rated’ mean?

‍Specifiers will know that a Class 1 fire rating (as defined by BS 476 Part 7) indicates that a material has limited surface flame spread. This is critical in commercial interiors where wall finishes must meet stringent fire safety standards – particularly in high-traffic areas such as lobbies and corridors.

When it comes to interior finishes, fire performance is non-negotiable to protect life safety. In commercial buildings, wall coverings must meet stringent fire resistance criteria to slow the spread of flames, reduce smoke generation, and protect escape routes.

Class 1 fire rated moss walls from Vantage Spaces are supplied with international fire-rated certification, classified as B-s1-d0 according to the UNE-EN 13501-1:2019 standard, which is becoming the preferred standard under Approved Document B*. We believe there’s no other moss that retains such a natural appearance, as well as providing increased safety indoors by preventing the spread of fire.
‍
‍
Discover moss walls by Vantage Spaces

Browse our moss walls inspiration gallery

The preferred standard under Approved Document B

UNE-EN 13501-1:2019 is a European standard that evaluates construction products to ensure they meet stringent fire safety criteria. It outlines the testing methods used to assess the performance of materials in the event of a fire, focusing on fire resistance, smoke emissions, and the production of flammable droplets.

‍

Breaking down the B-s1-d0 classification

B - Fire resistant
Indicates a very limited contribution to the fire.

s1 - Smoke emission
‍This means it emits a minimal amount of smoke, the best possible category.

d0 - Generation of flammable droplets
‍Ensures there are no flammable liquids, minimising the risk of fire spreading to the fullest extent.
‍

Why it makes sense to specify Class 1 fire-rated materials

An important distinction is that our Class 1 fire-rated moss panels arrive with full certification ‘out of the box’, rather than being retrospectively sprayed with a retardant. When you specify moss panels with full certification, you’re choosing compliance, credibility and peace of mind.

+ Compliance with Building Regulations
‍A Class 1 fire rating will meet fire safety requirements under Approved Document B, helping to avoid failed inspections and costly redesigns.
‍

+ Safe escape routes and common areas
‍Moss walls are typically used along corridors and in stairwells and lobby areas, where Class 1 materials are often mandatory.


‍+ Supports Gateway 2 Approval
‍Using Class 1-rated finishes helps to demonstrate due diligence and risk mitigation.


+ Reduces liability for specifiers and contractors
‍By specifying Class 1 fire rated materials at the outset of a project, contractors limit their exposure to delays, incompletion, litigation, or insurance issues. It's much more cost-effective to fit Class 1 from the start, rather than having to retrofit afterwards.

‍
+ Future-proof your design
‍Fire safety standards are evolving, and looking ahead to a more stringent regulatory landscape makes good business sense.


‍+ Build trust
‍With partners and clients by demonstrating due diligence and risk management.

‍
+ Winning future business
‍Equip yourself for meeting the requirements of tenders that require stringent safety standards.


+ No nasty surprises
‍Goalposts can change over the course of a project. A belt-and-braces approach can help to prevent nasty surprises just before your Practical Completion date!
‍

Design without sacrifice

Of course, safety is of the utmost importance, but the Vantage Spaces Class 1 fire-rated moss delivers on so many other levels as well:

+ Retains the beautiful colour and texture of natural moss
+ Sustainably sourced and naturally preserved with non-toxic ingredients
+ Different colours and textures, allowing bespoke designs and logo panels
+ Long lasting and low maintenance, giving years of impeccable decor
+ A versatile design tool where space is key, adding greenery without volume

‍

See for yourself

We installed Class 1 fire-rated moss panels and pillars for a global insurance company that wanted to create a progressive and productive workplace, whilst adhering to the very best safety standards. Our fire-rated moss panels were the obvious answer, providing beautiful biophilic design without compromising on practicality or safety.

Why not see for yourself? Call us to make an appointment at our showroom – we’d be delighted to show you how beautifully natural our fire-rated moss is.
‍

‍Sources
‍*https://www.warringtonfire.com/resources/bs-476-and-en-13501-what-you-need-to-know