A new standard for the fire testing, performance and classification of modern building systems has been launched by LPCB.

LPS 1501, Fire test and performance requirements for innovative methods of building construction, aims to help provide insurers, fire services and regulatory authorities with the assurance that building systems, such as panelised systems, maintain acceptable levels of fire protection in terms of property protection.

BRE Global says the standard was developed for innovative buildings that are not wholly covered under current fire performance standards, or that have a limited track record of service in UK construction. The objective of LPS 1501 is to establish if there are any potential weak links in the systems that prevent pre-assembly or modular buildings from achieving their prescribed performance.

The standard includes hybrid, panelised and volumetric systems, and covers ‘purpose groups’ using buildings constructed with these systems, such as residential, offices, hotels, retail and schools.

"The wider benefits of innovative forms of construction are well understood, but it is vital that these aims are not achieved to the cost of satisfactory fire performance,” said Jo Whyman, principal risk analyst at insurance company, Zurich.

“The introduction of LPS 1501 assists key stakeholders, including insurance companies in the commercial property sector, in providing a credible property based fire performance test for innovative methods of construction. Specification of LPS 1501 approved building systems will provide interested parties with a high degree of confidence that the buildings in question achieve satisfactory levels of fire performance, extending beyond the Building Regulations life safety remit."

LPS 1501