Passive Fire Protection RAMS Guide for UK Contractors
Passive fire protection RAMS must address tested system requirements, substrate preparation, fire compartment integrity, photographic QA, and product compliance documentation. Using an untested or incorrectly applied system can silently eliminate fire compartmentation without being visible to a building inspector.
Key Topics in a Passive Fire Protection RAMS
- Tested systems
- Passive fire protection products must be applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s tested system specification. The tested system specifies: substrate type, application thickness, surface preparation method, and application conditions. Deviation from the tested system invalidates the fire performance evidence. The RAMS must reference the specific product data sheet and tested system certificate.
- Substrate preparation
- Surface contamination (rust, mill scale, existing coating thickness outside tolerance) will prevent the intumescent or cementitious coating from achieving the tested performance. The RAMS must describe the inspection and preparation standard required before any application begins.
- Application conditions
- Temperature, humidity, and substrate temperature limits from the product data sheet must be observed. The RAMS must state the acceptable range and how conditions are monitored during application. Work must stop if conditions are out of range.
- Photographic QA and records
- Installation evidence — pre-application substrate condition, thickness readings at specified intervals, and as-applied visual inspection — must be recorded photographically and retained. The RAMS must describe the inspection and record regime required for each beam, column, or penetration covered.
- COSHH for PFP products
- Intumescent coatings may contain isocyanates (in two-part systems), solvents, or irritants. COSHH assessment must cover the specific products used, with RPE, ventilation, and skin contact controls referenced.
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