On this page
The useful purchasing question is not simply whether a report contains a familiar class. It is whether the evidence applies to the product and arrangement being specified.
Edition checked
EN 13501-1:2018 is the published Genorma record checked on 7 October 2026. BSI lists the corresponding reference as current, including a tracked-changes purchase variant. Check the document format selected rather than treating a comparison variant as a different European edition. Genorma record; BSI catalogue.
Keep the complete reference in the project record and the evidence enquiry. Resolve any earlier edition named in a specification with the responsible reviewer.
Reaction to fire is a specific classification task
The public scope treats products in relation to their end-use application, with separate categories for general construction products, floorings and linear pipe insulation. Power, control and communication cables are outside Part 1’s classification scope and are directed to Part 6. Source: Genorma scope.
| Evidence or requirement | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Test data | Which sample, method and configuration were assessed? |
| Classification report | Which classification and application coverage are stated? |
| Product proposal | Does its construction match the evidence? |
| Project requirement | Does the proposed performance meet the specified end-use need? |
Do not confuse reaction-to-fire classification with fire resistance or a general approval of the building design. Use the material standards guide to explore related document areas.
Review the report against the proposed product
Prepare a product schedule identifying materials, thicknesses, layers, finishes and relevant installation arrangement. Give the responsible fire-performance reviewer enough detail to compare the proposal with the evidence and its stated application range.
- Identity: does the report identify the exact product construction and manufacturer?
- Configuration: which substrates, fixing arrangements or other end-use details are represented?
- Coverage: what application range and limitations does the classification document state?
- Changes: how are a different adhesive, surface finish, thickness or assembly reviewed?
- Requirement match: who checks the classified performance against the project specification?
These are original procurement questions. They do not extend a report’s coverage or prescribe the tests required. Obtain the applicable classification rules from the licensed standard and have the competent reviewer resolve the actual product and application.
Ask for the classification document and its supporting identification rather than accepting an isolated test value or brochure badge. Keep a record of the comparison made for the order. That makes a later product substitution easier to review and helps the installation team understand any agreed limitations.
A fictional lining-panel change
A supplier offers a lining panel with a classification report for one construction and mounting arrangement. The contractor proposes a different surface finish and a changed installation detail while retaining the same product name.
The buyer supplies both versions to the responsible reviewer. The supplier is asked to identify the classification’s stated coverage and explain the proposed changes. The project team then decides whether the existing evidence supports the revised proposal or further assessment is needed.
The purchasing decision is to resolve the application match before accepting the quoted class. This example is fictional and does not classify a product or approve an installation.
Order the publication
Confirm the edition, language, document format and access licence with Genorma. The seller confirms available options and the final checkout price.
Frequently asked questions
Is a test report the same as a classification report?
They answer different questions. Ask which document establishes the claimed classification and its application coverage.
Does the same product name guarantee the same coverage?
No. Compare the construction and end-use details, including any changes, with the evidence.
Does Part 1 classify construction cables?
The published scope excludes those cables and directs that classification area to Part 6.
Does buying the standard approve the building?
No. Document selection, product classification and project compliance are separate tasks.
Primary catalogue information checked on 7 October 2026. Use the licensed requirements and competent fire-performance review for actual decisions.
Explore more standards buying guides
Browse standards by reference and subject to compare related document choices.