When considering fire hazards for materials, according to industry experts at Wood Solutions:
"Generally speaking timber products are Group 3 or 4, predominately fire retardant timber are Group 2, and non-combustible or near non-combustible are Group 1."
The stringent NCC fire-hazard regulations must be a consideration when designing commercial spaces. For example under the NCC, the lining for fire isolated exit corridors require materials to have a Group 1 rating. This prevents specifiers from using timber products, as they would be Group 3.
Timber is often a preferred material for commercial spaces as it brings warmth, life and even wellbeing benefits to the inhabitants. While offering a beautiful finish and sustainability credentials, unfortunately, timber might not make the drawing board for foyers, fit-outs or offices due to fire rating requirements.
Porta have designers covered with a special presentation focused on:
- How to specify timber for internal applications to achieve a Group 1 rating.
- How to specify timber for external facades to meet combustibility requirements.
- How to design and specify materials considering timbers natural characteristics.
This knowledge can be applied when designing for commercial projects such as aged care, schools, universities, halls, foyers, offices and healthcare projects.
The Porta Specification can assist you in writing specifications for pre-finished timbers that can meet a group 1 fire-rating for internal applications. Request a meeting below to speak to our team.
