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Two ACM wall cladding systems pass latest government fire safety test 17/08/2017 Labelled as Repairs, Regulation

Following failures of 3 types of wall cladding systems tested as part of the government's series of large-scale fire safety tests, two further combinations of wall cladding systems containing Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) have been tested and have passed the government's latest safety tests. Results of the remaining 2 large-scale tests will be published when they are available.

 

The first test was of a wall cladding system consisting of ACM with polyethylene filler (Category 3) and foam insulation, with fire breaks and cavity barriers in place. The government's expert panel advised that the results of this first test show that the combination of materials used in the test does not meet current Building Regulations guidance.

 

The second test of cladding and insulation combinations was of a wall cladding system consisting of Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding with a polyethylene filler (category 3) with stone wool insulation. The government's expert panel advised that the results show this combination does not meet current building regulation guidance.

 

The third test was of a wall cladding system consisting of Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding with a fire-retardant polyethylene filler (category 2 in screening tests) with PIR foam insulation and was published on 8 August 2017. The government's expert panel advised that the results of this third test show that the combination of materials used in the test does not meet current Building Regulations guidance.

 

The fourth test was of a wall cladding system consisting of Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding with a fire-resistant polyethylene filler (category 2 in screening tests) and stone wool insulation (a form of mineral wool) and was published on 11 August 2017. This combination of materials has passed the test.

 

The fifth test was of a wall cladding system consisting of Aluminium Composite material (ACM) cladding with a limited combustibility filler (category 1 in screening tests) with PIR foam insulation and was published on 14 August 2017. The government's Expert Panel advises that the results of this latest test show that these combinations of materials can be compliant when installed and maintained properly.

 

The Government's Building Safety Programme provides the very latest advice & guidance for landlords and building owners and Communities Secretary Sajid Javid has written to local authorities to seek their help and remind them of their responsibilities in identifying any private residential buildings with ACM cladding and if need be taking any necessary enforcement action against the owners of such buildings where fire hazards are discovered.

 

 

 

 

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