Promat updates UK passive fire protection handbook for structural steel compliance
Iain Hoey
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Revised handbook aligns with building safety legislation
Promat has released a revised edition of its Passive Fire Protection Handbook, with a focus on structural steel guidance in the UK construction sector.
According to Promat, the new edition incorporates updated test standards and regulatory alignment in response to the Building Safety Act.
The updated content is intended to support contractors, designers and specifiers working to meet the latest compliance requirements.
The company stated that the handbook now offers traceable, detailed information aligned with the Golden Thread principle.
Promat added that the revised structural steel section is part of its continued effort to support correct specification and installation of passive fire protection systems.
New content covers performance boards and system selection
The updated section includes information on selecting the correct protective boards for various steel applications.
It features performance data and application instructions for specific products, including VERMICULUX-S, PROMATECT-250 and PROMATECT-XW.
Installation guidance is included for 1, 2, 3 and 4-sided steel encasement methods.
It also provides instructions for handling complex profiles such as cellular beams.
The company said the handbook includes tools to calculate fire resistance from 30 minutes up to 240 minutes based on relevant standards.
Test alignment with EN 13381-4 and EN 1363-1
Promat confirmed that the revised content has been aligned with current industry test methods.
Referenced standards include EN 13381-4 for the assessment of the contribution of structural steel protection to fire resistance.
EN 1363-1, covering fire resistance test procedures, is also referenced throughout the revised guidance.
According to Promat, the handbook reflects its current testing portfolio, which the company claims is the most comprehensive in the UK for structural steel.
The changes are designed to assist stakeholders in ensuring that installed systems meet tested performance levels.
Industry response to regulatory change
Josh Slack, Commercial Director at Promat, said: “The Passive Fire Protection Handbook is one of the most trusted resources in UK construction.
“This update takes it to the next level. With the spotlight rightly on building safety, there’s a real desire for absolute clarity, certainty and compliance – and that’s exactly what this updated guidance delivers.
“It gives our customers the confidence they need when specifying structural steel protection, which is especially important as this continues to be a popular construction method.”
Slack added: “For anyone responsible for demonstrating compliance – from principal designers through to contractors and building owners – the handbook provides a reliable, thoroughly tested foundation to work from.
“It reflects Promat’s role as a proactive partner in the industry’s drive towards safer, more accountable construction.”
Support for construction stakeholders across UK projects
Promat said the handbook supports a range of construction professionals working in fire safety compliance roles.
This includes principal designers, contractors, fire engineers and building owners.
The company stated that the update contributes to industry understanding of the required level of protection for structural steelwork.
The guidance aims to reduce errors in both specification and installation of fire protection systems.
According to Promat, the handbook will continue to evolve in line with future updates to testing and building regulations.
Promat updates UK passive fire protection handbook for structural steel compliance: Summary
Promat has published a revised edition of its Passive Fire Protection Handbook.
The updated version includes a new section focused on structural steel fire protection.
The changes are aligned with test standards including EN 13381-4 and EN 1363-1.
The revision supports compliance with the UK Building Safety Act and Golden Thread requirements.
Detailed performance data for products including VERMICULUX-S, PROMATECT-250 and PROMATECT-XW is included.
Guidance is provided for multiple encasement types and complex steel profiles.
Promat claims to offer the most comprehensive testing portfolio for structural steel protection in the UK.
The handbook is aimed at contractors, designers and building owners responsible for fire safety compliance.
Josh Slack, Promat’s Commercial Director, said the update supports clearer specification and installation of systems.
The company stated that the handbook would continue to develop as standards and regulations evolve.
