Check approval for Category 3 Control fire performance cables, warns AEI Cables

Specialist AEI Cables is highlighting the need to use only approved cabling in critical signal and control equipment in the event of a real fire with the announcement of a revised version of the Code of Practice covering these areas of performance.

The equipment served by these cables – including smoke and heat extraction systems – assists fire services in the case of firefighting and a safe evacuation in the case of life safety.

As the only supplier in the UK with independent approval from LPCB for BS8519 Category 3 Control fire performance cables with a fire survival time of up to 120 minutes, AEI Cables is highlighting the reference in the new revised version of the standard.

Graham Turner of AEI Cables, said: “The standard clearly references and clarifies the products and levels of performance that should be used for all parts of the supply chain from specifiers to contractors and installers.

“We should point out that anything inferior installed is dangerous and could lead to some of these systems simply not surviving in a fire with the dangers that brings. These cables reduce the risk to life through the reduction of harmful smoke, toxic gases, and reduced flame spread. We should all strive to achieve the highest performance possible.

“Fire and rescue services depend on these systems to help fighting a fire and the safe evacuation of those who may be in the building – installing the wrong products can be catastrophic.”

The applications of Category 3 Control fire performance cables also applies to evacuation alarms for the disabled in care homes, emergency voice communications systems and voice alarm systems in relevant buildings including tall buildings, office spaces, hospitals, care homes, shopping malls and stadia.

AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling has been approved and certified by LPCB to BS8519 (Annex B), Category 3 Control in addition to Category 2 Control. The BS Code of Practice under BS8519 contains six categories of cables, three for power cables and three for control cables each covering survival times of 30, 60 or 120 minutes.

Using the very latest in technology and science, the Firetec Total Fire Solutions range offers Mineral Insulated Cabling (MIC), Firetec Enhanced fire performance cabling, accessories and technical support from the AEI Cables distribution facility at Washington, Tyne and Wear.

All AEI Cables’ products are supplied with approvals from independent bodies including BASEC and LPCB. It also holds approvals from organisations including Lloyds, the MoD, Network Rail and LUL and works to international standards around the world.

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