EDITORIAL Insulation
The“ Fire Trend”
Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association has implemented the SANS 53501-1 standard in order to improve fire safety and ensure compliance with international classification standards for thermal insulation products and systems in South Africa’ s building industry.
The Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association( TIPSASA) has announced the implementation of the SANS 53501-1 standard, effective from 1 January 2025. This new classification standard, which utilises data from reaction to fire tests, aims to enhance consistency, quality, and compliance within the South African thermal insulation industry.
The newly adopted standard aligns with the European reaction to fire classification for construction products, reinforcing TIPSASA’ s commitment to improving fire safety and sustainability in the building sector. While the standard applies primarily to thermal insulation products and systems, it marks a significant step in standardising fire safety protocols in construction, ensuring all relevant operations meet stringent safety requirements.
African building industry, aligning local practices with international standards. The association has urged all industry stakeholders to fully cooperate with the transition and adhere to the new requirements.
For more information or to access support, industry professionals can visit TIPSASA’ s website at www. tipsasa. co. za or contact the support team at des @ tipsasa. co. za or call( 012) 663 1480.
This update serves as a critical move towards enhancing building safety and is expected to positively impact fire risk management across the construction industry. ■
Scope of application
The standard pertains to thermal insulation products and systems manufactured in South Africa. It provides a clear classification procedure for reaction to fire for all construction products and building elements.
Compliance requirements
Companies must comply with SANS 10400-T: 2024 Edition 5, Fire Protection. Adhering to these requirements will meet the obligations of Part T of the National Building Regulations under the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act of 1977.
Support and resources
TIPSASA has been offering training sessions and guidance documents since 2024 to assist businesses in implementing the standard.
TIPSASA stresses that this new initiative will significantly improve fire safety measures within the South
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